Long-acting synthetic mineralocorticoid that replaces aldosterone function; promotes sodium retention and potassium excretion in the renal distal tubules, correcting the electrolyte imbalances of hypoadrenocorticism (Addison's disease)
At a glance
Storage
2–25°C, shake well before use, protect from light
Dosing
Hypoadrenocorticism (Addison's disease) — mineralocorticoid replacement
Frequency
Every 25–28 days initially; adjust interval based on electrolytes
Duration: Lifelong; dose and interval titrated to electrolytes
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.
Find a vet near you →Safety
Adverse effects
Common
PU/PD (initial)
Injection site reactions
Serious
Hypokalemia
Hypernatremia
Volume overload
Serum Na+ and K+ at 2 weeks, then at each injectionBUN/CreatinineHydration statusBody weight
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.
Find a vet near you →Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is DOCP (Desoxycorticosterone Pivalate)?
DOCP (Desoxycorticosterone Pivalate) is a mineralocorticoid used in pets. Long-acting synthetic mineralocorticoid that replaces aldosterone function; promotes sodium retention and potassium excretion in the renal distal tubules, correcting the electrolyte imbalances of hypoadrenocorticism (Addison's disease)
›What is DOCP (Desoxycorticosterone Pivalate) used for in pets?
DOCP (Desoxycorticosterone Pivalate) is used in veterinary medicine for: Hypoadrenocorticism (Addison's disease) — mineralocorticoid replacement.
›What is the DOCP (Desoxycorticosterone Pivalate) dose for dogs?
For dogs, DOCP (Desoxycorticosterone Pivalate) is typically dosed as follows — Hypoadrenocorticism (Addison's disease) — mineralocorticoid replacement: 1.5–2.2 mg/kg IM/SC Every 25–28 days initially; adjust interval based on electrolytes. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of DOCP (Desoxycorticosterone Pivalate)?
Common: PU/PD (initial), Injection site reactions. Serious (call your vet immediately): Hypokalemia, Hypernatremia, Volume overload.
›Does DOCP (Desoxycorticosterone Pivalate) need a prescription?
Yes. DOCP (Desoxycorticosterone Pivalate) is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
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.
Find a vet near you →References
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database