Potent carbonic anhydrase inhibitor (10x more potent than acetazolamide) that reduces aqueous humor formation, promotes bicarbonate diuresis, and causes systemic metabolic acidosis. Used for glaucoma when acetazolamide is insufficient.
At a glance
Class
Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitor
Storage
Store at room temperature
Dosing
Used for glaucoma — reduces IOP by decreasing aqueous humor production
Used for acute glaucoma management
Safety
IOPSerum electrolytesBlood gasRenal function
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Dichlorphenamide?
Dichlorphenamide is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor used in pets. Potent carbonic anhydrase inhibitor (10x more potent than acetazolamide) that reduces aqueous humor formation, promotes bicarbonate diuresis, and causes systemic metabolic acidosis. Used for glaucoma when acetazolamide is insufficient.
›What is Dichlorphenamide used for in pets?
Dichlorphenamide is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for glaucoma — reduces IOP by decreasing aqueous humor production; Used for acute glaucoma management.
›What is the Dichlorphenamide dose for dogs?
For dogs, Dichlorphenamide is typically dosed as follows — Used for glaucoma — reduces IOP by decreasing aqueous humor production: 2–5 mg/kg PO q8–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Dichlorphenamide dose for cats?
For cats, Dichlorphenamide is typically dosed as follows — Used for acute glaucoma management: 1–2 mg/kg PO q8–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Dichlorphenamide need a prescription?
Yes. Dichlorphenamide 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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