Is your dog suddenly a little chubby and also seems a bit listless and lethargic?
Then it may be that the first signs of an overactive thyroid gland become noticeable here.
This must be treated with medication, for example with Forthyron for the dog. The following guide explains exactly what you have to consider here.
Forthyron for dogs: what it is and what it is used for
The name of the drug may already give it away: Forthyron for dogs If you have an underactive thyroid – also known as hypothyroidism – administered.
Forthyron can also be the right medication for dogs with hyperthyroidism in dogs.
It contains levothyroxine sodium. This is a combination of a synthetically produced thyroid hormone – L-thyroxine – and sodium salt.
If a dog suffers from hypothyroidism, two important thyroid hormones are no longer produced in sufficient quantities: T3 and T4.
T4 in particular is the hormone whose levels are out of whack here, which is why a drug like Forthyron needs to be administered to the dog.
IMPORTANT
Forthyron for dogs may only be administered if hypothyroidism has been diagnosed by the vet – but never because symptoms indicate the disease.
Forthyron for dogs is available in two different versions, each with different concentrations of levothyroxine sodium:
- Forthyron 200mcg
- Forthyron 400mcg
- Forthyron flavored 400 mcg
- Forthyron flavored 600 mcg
- Forthyron flavored 800 mcg
It is administered via tablets, with the Forthyron flavored being mixed with an aroma that is appealing to dogs.
Proper use and dosage of Forthyron in dogs
The correct dosage of Forthyron in dogs is at the beginning of therapy at 10 μg levothyroxine sodium per kg body weight twice daily the fur nose.
The total dose of levothyroxine sodium is 20 μg per kilogram of body weight per day.
Please note that dogs weighing less than 5 kg should be treated with a lower dose of levothyroxine sodium.
The dose is given directly into the dog’s mouth, and at an interval of 12 hours.
Unlike many other thyroid medications, Forthyron for dogs can be administered on an empty stomach or with food.
How long does it take for Forthyron to work in dogs?
Until Forthyron took effect in dogs, can drag on for a few days or weeks.
Because first the right dosage for your dog has to be found – and that is usually only the case after 4 to 6 weeks.
Here you have to keep in mind: This control takes place after the first dose of Forthyron, about 4 to 6 hours later.
The main thing here is to check the T4 values in the dog’s blood. If these are still too low, a higher levothyroxine sodium dose may be necessary.
Until then, however, the initial dosage will not be changed; an adjustment will only be made after a further blood test.
What side effects can Forthyron cause in dogs?
Side effects with Forthyron for dogs mainly occur due to an overdose. Here you can, among other things increased urination and panting observe.
Weight loss can also be one of the side effects – but this is not accompanied by a simultaneous loss of appetite.
Do you notice any other side effects that are not listed in the leaflet?
Then stop your dog’s treatment with Forthyron immediately and take him to the vet immediately.
When should I not use Forthyron in dogs?
One use of Forthyron in dogs is allowed not be done in pregnant bitches.
The thyroid hormone it contains can have a negative effect on the dog’s fetuses and is released to them via the mother’s bloodstream.
Caution is advised in dogs suffering from diabetes mellitus. If Forthyron therapy takes place at the same time, the blood sugar level must be checked regularly.
Where can I buy Forthyron for dogs?
Forthyron for Dogs is a prescription thyroid medication for dogs. It is available in pharmacies only on presentation of a veterinary prescription.
Our tip
Pharmacies do not always have veterinary medicine in stock, the medicine has to be ordered. So you should order Forthyron in time for a continuous treatment.
The costs that you incur for the dog at Forthyron can look like this:
- Forthyron flavored 200mcg: €41.67
- Forthyron flavored 400 μg: €73.80
- Forthyron flavored 800 μg: €98.75
This is a pack size of 25 x 10 tablets Forthyron flavored.
What alternatives are there to Forthyron for dogs?
An alternative to Forthyron for dogs is Werthyrox for dogs.
Leventa for dogs can also be administered as an alternative if the dog has had bad experiences with Forthyron or the drug has not shown any effect.
In addition, there is also L-Thyroxine 200 μg, which can be used as an alternative treatment for hypothyroidism.
Please keep in mind that these medications can also have side effects.
You can, of course, discuss this with your vet – together with the correct dosage and application.
Does your dog suffer from hypothyroidism and is being treated with Forthyron? Then we would be happy if you would like to share your experiences in the comments.