Deslanoside

Deslanoside is a synthetic analog of the natural cardiac glycoside digoxin. It is primarily used in veterinary medicine for the treatment of heart failure in dogs and cats. Deslanoside works by inhibiting the sodium-potassium ATPase pump in cardiac muscle cells, which increases the intracellular concentration of sodium and calcium ions. This leads to a decrease in contractility and heart rate, thereby reducing the workload on the heart and improving its efficiency.

Deslanoside is available in oral tablet form and is typically administered once or twice daily. The dosage is adjusted based on the animal's weight and the severity of heart failure. Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting and diarrhea, as well as bradycardia (slow heart rate). More serious side effects can include electrolyte imbalances, particularly hypokalemia (low potassium levels), and cardiac arrhythmias.

Deslanoside should be used with caution in animals with certain medical conditions, such as renal or hepatic disease, as these conditions can affect its metabolism and excretion. It is also important to monitor the animal's heart rate and electrolyte levels regularly while on deslanoside therapy. As with any medication, deslanoside should only be used under the guidance of a veterinarian.