Naturally occurring nitrosourea antibiotic from Streptomyces achromogenes that alkylates DNA and selectively destroys pancreatic beta cells (used therapeutically for insulinoma). Also inhibits DNA synthesis via carbamylation.
At a glance
Class
Nitrosourea Alkylating Agent (Chemotherapy)
Schedule
Prescription (Chemotherapy)
Storage
Refrigerate 2–8°C; reconstituted stable 48h refrigerated; protect from light; chemotherapy precautions
Dosing
Used for metastatic insulinoma (destroys neoplastic beta cells)
Feline insulinoma is extremely rare
Safety
Renal function (BUN, creatinine, urinalysis) before and 24h after each doseBlood glucose (diabetes onset)CBCGI toleranceUrine output during diuresis
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Streptozocin?
Streptozocin is a nitrosourea alkylating agent (chemotherapy) used in pets. Naturally occurring nitrosourea antibiotic from Streptomyces achromogenes that alkylates DNA and selectively destroys pancreatic beta cells (used therapeutically for insulinoma). Also inhibits DNA synthesis via carbamylation.
›What is Streptozocin used for in pets?
Streptozocin is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for metastatic insulinoma (destroys neoplastic beta cells); Feline insulinoma is extremely rare.
›What is the Streptozocin dose for dogs?
For dogs, Streptozocin is typically dosed as follows — Used for metastatic insulinoma (destroys neoplastic beta cells): 250–500 mL PO q2–3 weeks. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Streptozocin dose for cats?
For cats, Streptozocin is typically dosed as follows — Feline insulinoma is extremely rare: undefined undefined N/A N/A. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Streptozocin need a prescription?
Yes. Streptozocin 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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