Percorten-V® Injection for Dogs with Addison’s Disease

Percorten-V® is a DOCP mineralocorticoid injection for canine Addison’s disease. This page explains what it treats, how it is given, and key safety. We support US delivery from Canada and options for those buying without insurance.

What Percorten-V Is and How It Works

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The active ingredient is desoxycorticosterone pivalate, a long-acting mineralocorticoid. It helps replace aldosterone activity to support sodium retention, potassium excretion, and fluid balance. This Desoxycorticosterone pivalate injection maintains electrolyte stability in dogs diagnosed with primary hypoadrenocorticism.

It is not a glucocorticoid. Many dogs still need a separate oral glucocorticoid as directed by the veterinarian. The treatment is administered by a veterinary professional on a recurring schedule based on clinical response and laboratory monitoring.

For other veterinary therapies, see Pet Medications.

Who It’s For

Percorten-V for dogs is indicated for long-term management of primary hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s disease). It is for canine use only. The injection supports dogs whose adrenal glands do not produce adequate mineralocorticoids.

It may not be appropriate for dogs with uncontrolled congestive heart failure, severe kidney disease, or known hypersensitivity to DOCP components. Use caution in animals with hypertension or edema. Breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs should be evaluated carefully by the prescriber.

Dosage and Usage

The medicine is given by a veterinarian as an intramuscular dose on a regular cycle. Interval and amount are guided by the dog’s serum electrolytes and clinical signs. A typical plan is established after initial stabilization and may be adjusted by the clinician over time.

This DOCP injection for dogs should be recorded on a dosing calendar. Keep a simple log of injection dates, appetite, thirst, energy, and any symptoms. Laboratory checks of sodium and potassium help determine the right interval for your pet.

Strengths and Forms

• Strength: Percorten-V 25 mg/mL
• Package: multi-dose 4 mL vial
• Dosage form: sterile suspension for intramuscular use
• Availability: varies by pharmacy and lot

Packaging and presentation can change over time. The vial is for veterinary clinic use; talk with the prescriber about administration arrangements.

Missed Dose and Timing

If a dose is missed or delayed, contact the veterinary clinic to reschedule. Do not administer extra injection volume to make up for a missed appointment. Watch for changes in appetite, energy, thirst, urination, vomiting, or diarrhea, and report significant changes to the care team.

Storage and Travel Basics

Store the vial at controlled room temperature as directed on the label. Protect from freezing, heat, and direct light. Keep the cap secured and the vial upright in a clean, dry place. Do not use the product past its expiration date or if the suspension looks clumped, discolored, or contaminated.

For travel, keep the vial in original packaging with the prescription label. Use a protective case, place it in your carry-on, and avoid extreme temperatures. Bring a copy of veterinary records in case airline or border staff request documentation. Keep away from children and other animals.

Benefits

This medicine replaces deficient mineralocorticoid activity, helping maintain normal hydration and electrolyte balance. Regular clinic-based dosing can support steady control once the interval is established. A long-acting profile may reduce daily pill burden for mineralocorticoid replacement, while a separate glucocorticoid can be tailored as needed.

Side Effects and Safety

• Increased thirst and urination
• Reduced or increased appetite
• Lethargy or restlessness
• Gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea
• Injection-site tenderness
• Fluid retention or swelling

Serious risks can include edema, worsening of heart failure, or significant electrolyte shifts. Dogs with underlying cardiac, renal, or hypertensive conditions require close supervision. A veterinarian may adjust the schedule or supportive therapy if adverse effects develop. If vomiting persists, your clinician may consider anti-nausea options; see our guide on Cerenia Tablets for general information.

Drug Interactions and Cautions

Mineralocorticoid therapy can interact with other medicines that affect electrolytes or fluid status. Use caution with diuretics, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or potassium supplements. Other corticosteroids may require adjustment based on the overall regimen. Always tell the prescriber about all medicines, vitamins, and preventives your dog takes.

If infections are present, appropriate antimicrobial treatment may be needed. For background reading on common pet antibiotics, see Cephalexin For Dogs and Doxycycline For Dogs.

What to Expect Over Time

After stabilization, many dogs show steadier energy, improved appetite, and normal thirst patterns as electrolytes remain in range. Ongoing veterinary follow-up is important. Clinicians may fine-tune the interval based on lab results and overall well-being. Keeping a simple journal of behavior, water intake, and appetite can help the care team spot trends and plan monitoring.

Compare With Alternatives

Approved alternatives include other desoxycorticosterone products and oral mineralocorticoid options. We also list Zycortal®, a DOCP suspension used for the same indication. Some clinicians may consider fludrocortisone acetate tablets for mineralocorticoid replacement; this choice depends on the dog’s needs and the prescriber’s judgment.

Pricing and Access

Canada-based pricing may offer value for self pay buyers. Check our current Percorten-V price on the product page and compare cash prices with your local clinic. If you are paying out of pocket, you can review options with your prescriber to align visit schedules with refill timing. Checkout is encrypted to protect your information.

Availability and Substitutions

Availability can change with manufacturing or distribution updates. If the product is unavailable, a prescriber may recommend a suitable alternative in the same class or an oral mineralocorticoid. Your veterinary team will decide if a generic DOCP option or a different therapy is appropriate for your dog’s condition.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

This therapy suits dogs diagnosed with primary hypoadrenocorticism who need mineralocorticoid replacement. It may not suit dogs with uncontrolled heart failure, severe renal disease, or a history of hypersensitivity to DOCP. Ask the clinic whether multi-visit scheduling could reduce trips. Set calendar alerts to avoid gaps in care and to time your Percorten-V refill.

Discuss getting more than one vial if your prescriber expects several cycles, so you can reduce reordering steps. Keep records of injection dates and monitoring labs to streamline follow-up discussions. For broader pet care reading, see Apoquel For Dogs for allergy management concepts.

Questions to Ask Your Clinician

• Diagnosis details: confirm primary Addison’s and any complicating factors.
• Supportive therapy: which glucocorticoid and for how long.
• Monitoring plan: how often to check electrolytes.
• Clinic visits: expected interval between injections.
• Adverse effects: warning signs that require a call.
• Concurrent meds: which drugs to avoid or review.
• Home records: what to track between appointments.

Authoritative Sources

• FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine
• Elanco (Manufacturer)
• Health Canada Drug Product Database

Ready to proceed? Add the item to your cart, upload the prescription, and choose express shipping at checkout. Information on this page is educational and not a substitute for veterinary advice. Always follow your veterinarian’s instructions and the product label.