Cushings and Trilostane

[AnnG]

Hello everyone. I'm new to this site, but would love some advice/experience info. First about my girl:
Buddha is a 12y/o (age approx shes a rescue) Yorkshire terrier. She has all the classic clinical symptoms of Cushings, and after ultrasound, blood tests, ACTH test, it's been determined that Ms. Bu does indeed have Cushings. We had a chance to consult with several vets (long story short we are military and were going through a move but finally landed.) and our current, permanent vet initially recommended Anipryl (selegiline generic) to "treat the clinical symptoms". It has worked great over the course of a year + since she was diagnosed, and with no side effects!
Recently, there is a return and increase of symptoms, including elevated white blood cell count, increased drinking, appetite, and urination. Also her thin skin has been developing lesions. My vet has recommended Trilostane, and I've been doing my research, but I wanted to know what other people have experienced as side effects with this drug. I'm very apprehensive after reading about Lysodren and hearing horror stories.
I should mention, her Cushing's is Pituitary. Whew, long post! Thanks for any input!

[Harley PoMMom]

Hi and welcome to you and Budda!

So sorry for the reasons thar brought you here but glad you found us.

In order for us to provide you with meaningful feedback we need to know more about Budda. Could you get copies of all tests that were done on her and post any abnormalities that are listed with the reference ranges and units of measurement..i.e...ALT 150 U/L (5-50). We are especially interested in the results from any diagnostic or monitoring tests for Cushing's. What were the findings of the ultrasound?

Both Trilostane/Vetoryl and Lysodren/Mitotane are strong drugs and both have the capablity to cause adverse side effects especially if the proper protocols are not followed, one drug is not any safer than the other one.

You can find information about both of those medicines here: Trilostane/Vetoryl Information and Resources (http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/showthread.php?t=185) and Lysodren loading Instructions and related tips (http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/showthread.php?t=181)

Please know we will help in any way we can so donot hesitate to ask all the questions you want.

Hugs, Lori

[AnnG]

Hi Lori,
Ok on her ACTH test here are the nutshell results:
Pre-ACTH Cortisol 7.6 ug/dl
Post-ACTH Cortisol 22.9 ug/dl. She also has collapsing main-stem bronchial tube, and is an abdominal breather as a result. I failed to mention previously she takes butorphanol for cough daily and theophyline for bronchodilation 2x a day.
Also the above is over a year old, as I don't have my current vets records on hand. But her last CBC had her white cell count over 24. That was after 3 weeks of antibiotic (her wbc came down while on antibiotic) but after 1 week off she cell count went back up.
We have an appt one week from Monday to do a current CBC, and ultrasound. I will request a copy and post when I have them.
After reviewing her records for the millionth time, it looks like my little gal is a mess! But she does have great quality of life, all things considered, and we absolutely adore her!
Thanks again for your input!

[Harley PoMMom]

.
We have an appt one week from Monday to do a current CBC, and ultrasound. I will request a copy and post when I have them.


Will be checking in for those results! ;)

Hugs, Lori

[molly muffin]

Hello and welcome from me too. :)

I think it's so true, our furbabies can be a real mess on paper, but have a happy good quality life.

Sounds like the cause of the WBC is still there. Since it when down while on antibioitics, my first thought is that there is an infection somewhere, since the WBC responded. That could also cause the cortisol to be higher than normal. (cortisol is a response usually to anything from activity, excitement, anxiety, illness).

We'll all want to know the results of the tests and ultrasound! :)

Welcome
Sharlene and Molly Muffin