Hello. I was here years ago when my Newfoundland Daisy was diagnosed with Cushing's quite a few years ago. Unfortunately she passed away quickly after starting Lysodren. You all were so helpful and supportive. I was unable to come back and thank you because I was just broken for awhile. So thank you.
Now, my 15 year old cocker spaniel, Dagget was diagnosed last spring, started 30mg of Vetoryl once a day, and did great! I mean absolutely wonderfully! In October he started breathing rapidly, fainting, etc. I took him to an ER and a cardiologist. He was hospitalized for three nights. They believe he had a blood clot in his lung, causing pulmonary hypertension. He nearly died, Viagra saved his life! He also has a heart murmur and is now on 8, yes EIGHT different meds plus Adaquin injections monthly.
Anyway, starting in October he lost his appetite. I mean he would barely eat hamburgers and pepperoni. He had an ACTH stim test in early October that was fine. I thought this appetite issue was from all the new meds. I mentioned to my vet about the issues, and noticed he'd lost 5 pounds, from 30 to 25, 4 of those since mid-October. But no one thought this was a Vetoryl issue.
Two weeks ago I finally insisted they do another ACTH stim test (I had been told we could go six months this time, so wasn't due for a few months). His pre level was 1.0. Post was 1.2. They did not test his electrolytes. The vet said to start him on a lower dose the next day. I called her back and made her call Dagget's internist at the specialty hospital (ya he has one of those because he had a gallbladder infection 3 years ago that nearly killed him) and i also said there's no way we will start him back on Vetoryl in any amount the next day. I had lost my border collie mix Lola to cancer that same week and wasn't about to lose Dagget.
As soon as I discontinued the Vetoryl, his appetite started coming back! This was two weeks ago. He now eats kibble with a bit of canned mixed in, not hamburgers and scrambled eggs! He's gained back a pound. He is also walking up and down steps much steadier and seems happier.
He had another ACTH test 2 days ago, 2 weeks after discontinuing Vetoryl. Pre 3.2 Post 9.6. Electrolytes normal. Vet is waiting to hear from the internist to see if we should get back on Vetoryl.
Sorry this is so long. Anyway, I guess I'm wondering if it's possible since his levels are actually normal after 2 weeks, if his levels might stay normal and he won't need vetoryl anymore? I feel like 1.2 post was dangerously low, but was it? It's is such a relief to see him eating normally again, and he seems stronger and happier without Vetoryl.
I'd love to hear any insights, ideas, experienced etc. I really love my little guy
Thank you!
Nancy