Inactive prodrug converted to cortisol (hydrocortisone) by hepatic 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. Natural glucocorticoid with both glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid activity. Weakest oral corticosteroid — requires hepatic activation.
At a glance
Class
Short-Acting Glucocorticoid
Storage
Store at room temperature below 25°C
Dosing
Rarely used — prednisone/prednisolone are more potent and predictable
Safety
Blood glucoseBody weightSigns of infectionAdrenal function with prolonged use
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Cortisone Acetate?
Cortisone Acetate is a short-acting glucocorticoid used in pets. Inactive prodrug converted to cortisol (hydrocortisone) by hepatic 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. Natural glucocorticoid with both glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid activity. Weakest oral corticosteroid — requires hepatic activation.
›What is Cortisone Acetate used for in pets?
Cortisone Acetate is used in veterinary medicine for: Rarely used — prednisone/prednisolone are more potent and predictable; Rarely used in cats.
›What is the Cortisone Acetate dose for dogs?
For dogs, Cortisone Acetate is typically dosed as follows — Rarely used — prednisone/prednisolone are more potent and predictable: 0.5–1 mg/kg PO/IM q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Cortisone Acetate dose for cats?
For cats, Cortisone Acetate is typically dosed as follows — Rarely used in cats: 1–2.5 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Cortisone Acetate need a prescription?
Yes. Cortisone Acetate is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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