Pimobendan

Pimobendan is a veterinary medication that functions as an inodilator, used primarily to treat congestive heart failure in dogs. It combines two mechanisms: a calcium sensitizer that enhances myocardial contractility without substantially increasing intracellular calcium, and a phosphodiesterase III (PDE3) inhibitor that promotes vasodilation of the systemic circulation. The result is improved cardiac output and reduced cardiac workload.

Indications and evidence support its use in dogs with heart failure due to myxomatous mitral valve disease or dilated cardiomyopathy. Pimobendan is also used in some dogs with preclinical mitral valve disease who have radiographic or clinical signs of cardiomegaly, based on trials suggesting it can delay the onset of congestive heart failure and may improve survival in certain populations.

Administration and dosing are determined by a veterinarian. Pimobendan is given orally, typically twice daily, and is often prescribed alongside standard heart failure therapies such as diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or digoxin. It is generally recommended to administer the drug with food to optimize absorption, though instructions may vary by formulation and patient.

Safety and availability: Pimobendan is approved for veterinary use and not approved for human use. Potential adverse effects include reduced appetite, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or hypotension, and it should be used with caution in dogs with significant hypotension or other serious systemic disease. Drug interactions with other vasodilators or investigational therapies should be monitored by a veterinarian.

In summary, pimobendan is an inodilator used to improve symptoms and outcomes in canine heart failure, with supporting evidence from canine trials and ongoing clinical use in veterinary cardiology.