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Tiopronin

Prescription
Thiol Compound / Cystine-Reducing Agent
Last reviewed 22 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Thiol compound that undergoes thiol-disulfide exchange with cystine, forming a more soluble tiopronin-cysteine mixed disulfide that is readily excreted in urine. Reduces urinary cystine concentration, preventing cystine urolith formation.

At a glance

Class
Thiol Compound / Cystine-Reducing Agent
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature below 25°C

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for cystinuria/cystine urolithiasis prevention (Newfoundlands, Dachshunds,
Dose
15–20 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q12h
🐈

Cat

Feline cystinuria is extremely rare
Dose
Route
N, A
Frequency
N/A

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature below 25°C

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Urinary cystine concentration or cystine:creatinine ratioUrinalysis (crystals, protein)Renal functionCBC

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Thiola

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Tiopronin?
Tiopronin is a thiol compound / cystine-reducing agent used in pets. Thiol compound that undergoes thiol-disulfide exchange with cystine, forming a more soluble tiopronin-cysteine mixed disulfide that is readily excreted in urine. Reduces urinary cystine concentration, preventing cystine urolith formation.
What is Tiopronin used for in pets?
Tiopronin is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for cystinuria/cystine urolithiasis prevention (Newfoundlands, Dachshunds, ; Feline cystinuria is extremely rare.
What is the Tiopronin dose for dogs?
For dogs, Tiopronin is typically dosed as follows — Used for cystinuria/cystine urolithiasis prevention (Newfoundlands, Dachshunds, : 15–20 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Tiopronin dose for cats?
For cats, Tiopronin is typically dosed as follows — Feline cystinuria 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 Tiopronin need a prescription?
Yes. Tiopronin 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. Find a vet near you →