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
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
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.
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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