Cardiac glycosides
Cardiac glycosides are a group of active substances extracted from plants that can improve heart function. They are mainly used in people with heart failure, but also in some dogs suffering from heart disease. In this article, you can find out more about the effects, use and side effects of cardiac glycosides in dogs.
What are cardiac glycosides?
Cardiac glycosides are chemical compounds that can be isolated from various plant species, such as the foxglove (Digitalis), the sea onion (Scilla) or the lily of the valley (Convallaria). They have a common structure consisting of a sugar part (glycone) and a steroid part (aglycone). The aglycone is responsible for the effect on the heart, while the glycone influences water solubility and excretion.
How do cardiac glycosides work?
Cardiac glycosides act directly on the heart muscle cells and increase the concentration of calcium there. This leads to a stronger contraction of the heart, as a result of which more blood is pumped into the circulation. Cardiac glycosides also slow down the electrical impulses that cause the heart to beat, preventing the heart rate from becoming too fast or irregular. This relieves the heart and allows it to work more efficiently.
When are cardiac glycosides used in dogs?
Cardiac glycosides are mainly used in dogs with chronic heart failure, i.e. when the heart can no longer transport enough blood to the body. This can have various causes, such as an enlargement of the heart (dilated cardiomyopathy), a thickening of the heart wall (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy) or a defect in the heart valves (valvular disease). The symptoms of heart failure can be Shortness of breath, coughing, weakness, weight loss or fluid accumulation in the abdomen or lungs.
Cardiac glycosides are usually administered in combination with other medications, such as diuretics (diuretics), ACE inhibitors (antihypertensives) or beta-blockers (heart rate reducers). The exact dosage and duration of treatment will depend on the severity of the condition and the dog's individual response. Your vet will be able to give you more information on this.
What are the side effects of cardiac glycosides in dogs?
Cardiac glycosides are very effective drugs, but they are also very toxic. They have a narrow therapeutic range, which means that even a small overdose can lead to severe symptoms of poisoning. The most common side effects of cardiac glycosides in dogs are
- Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- Cardiac arrhythmias such as extrasystoles, atrial fibrillation or ventricular fibrillation
- Nervous disorders such as tremors, cramps or visual disturbances
- Allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching or shortness of breath
If you notice one or more of these symptoms in your dog, you should contact your vet or go to a veterinary clinic immediately. Poisoning with cardiac glycosides can be life-threatening and must be treated quickly.
How can you support your dog?
If your dog suffers from a heart condition and is given cardiac glycosides, there are a few things you can do to support him:
- Follow your vet's instructions exactly regarding dosage and check-ups.
- Keep the medication safe and avoid mixing it with other medications or supplements.
- Give your dog a balanced and easily digestible diet that is not too salty or greasy.
- Provide sufficient exercise, but avoid over-exertion or stress for your dog.
- Monitor your dog closely for possible side effects or worsening of his condition.
Cardiac glycosides are an important treatment option for dogs with heart failure, but they also require careful use and monitoring. By educating yourself and working with your veterinarian, you can help your dog live a longer and better life.
The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.
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