Phenylpropanolamine and Urethral Sphincter Hypotonus

With diethylstilbestrol (DES) gone and no availability in sight, a suitable alternative is phenylpropanolamine. Incontinence as a result of urethral sphincter hypotonus can occur in with increasing prevalence in older animals. Cats or dogs with a weak bladder can often control leaking during the day; however while sleeping this is another story. PROIN® is a chewable tablet available in veterinary practice that can be utilized in some animals. However, strengths available are 25mg, 50mg and 75mg and the only flavor is liver. This can prove difficult, particularly in feline patients that are more particular with taste.

Phenylpropanolamine should be used with caution in patients with hyperthyroidism, diabetes and hypertension. Pharmacy Solutions can compound any gaps between therapy as far as individualizing doses, taste aversions from liver and sustained release capsules to lessen the dose frequency burden. We make transdermal, sustained release capsules and oral solutions to bridge the gap and tailor the dose to each client’s particular needs. Side effects to note include hypertension, appetite reduction, upset stomach and increased thirst.

Dosing for phenylpropanolamine (Dogs): 12.5-50mg PO every 8 hours in dogs/(Cats): 12.5mg PO every 8 hours in cats. Considerations for a sustained release capsule can be made to alleviate the dosing frequency.