Description

        Used for urinary incontinence.  Safer than DES; less convenient (have to give more often).

        In order to understand how phenylpropanolamine works in the body, it is important to understand some background regarding the "autonomic nervous system."  The autonomic nervous system can be thought of as the "automatic" nervous system in that it controls physiologic functions that one is not aware of.  Examples include sweating during times of anxiety, increases and decreases in heart rate or respiratory rate, dilation or constriction of the pupils, blood pressure changes and other functions that enable us to adapt to our changing environment as we perceive it.

        The autonomic nervous system is divided into the "sympathetic" and the "parasympathetic" portions.  The easiest way to think of these divisions is that the parasympathetic system maintains the "status quo" of the body while the sympathetic system initiates changes that are adaptive in times of stress (the so-called "fight or flight: response.)

        The sympathetic nervous system is where phenylpropanolamine acts as a stimulant promoting the "fight or flight" reflexes within the body.  This means that phenylpropanolamine has many effects and thus many uses in the treatment of disease.  Its relative safety has made it a common over-the-counter remedy.  For example, one of the effects of phenylpropanolamine is a decrease in appetite which makes for an effective diet aid.  Phenylpropanolamine is also a potent decongestant and is a common cold remedy ingredient.  In veterinary medicine, though, it is used almost exclusively for the control of urinary incontinence in the female dog; phenylpropanolamine is able to increase sphincter tone in the urethra thus curtailing inadvertent urine leakage.

What is this Medication used for?

       Phenylpropanolamine is generally used 2-3 times daily for control of urinary incontinence.  Some time release formulations may be used less frequently.

        Only occasionally is this medication used as a decongestant for animals.

What are the side effects?

        Phenylpropanolamine stimulates a "fight or flight" response.  This means that the following effects may be observed: rapid heart rate, elevation in blood pressure and restlessness.

        Appetite loss or reduction may be a problem.

        Irritability and restlessness are documented side effects that can occur in humans.  It is reasonable to consider that this medication may create similar effects in our pets.

What special Precautions are there?

        In some cases of urinary incontinence, phenylpropanolamine is used in combination with diethylstilbesterol (an estrogen).  No harmful drug interactions are expected with this combination

        Phenylpropanolamine should not be used with L-Deprenyl (Anipryl) due to resulting unpredictable fluctuations in blood pressure.  It is recommended that phenylpropanolamine be withdrawn for 2 weeks preceding the use of L-Deprenyl.

        An increased risk of hypertension can also occur if phenylpropanolamine is given in conjunction with tricyclic antidepressants (such as amitryptilline), NSAIDS (such as aspirin), or amitraz (active ingredient of the Preventic tick control collar).

Concerns and Cautions

        When initiating therapy with phenylpropanolamine, it is important not to expect an immediate change in urinary incontinence.  Several days of proper dosing will be needed before effect can be assessed.

        Before using phenylpropanolamine to control urinary incontinence, it is important to rule out other medical causes of incontinence such as kidney disease and bladder infection.   These latter conditions are progressive and should be identified early in their course for meaningful treatment results.

                This information is for educational purposes only and is intended to be a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise and professional judgment of your veterinarian.  The information is NOT to be used for diagnosis or treatment of your pet.  You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advise concerning the treatment of your pet.

        The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, allergic reactions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for your pet.  It is not a substitute for a veterinary exam, and it does not replace the need for service provided by your veterinarian.

You may request a refill of your pet's prescription; however, submitting this form does not guarantee that the medicine will be refilled.  All refills are reviewed by a doctor before being filled.  If there is an issue, one of our staff members will contact you.  When your prescription is ready for pick up we will contact you at your preferred method of contact.

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Last modified: 05/03/07