Urinary incontinence in female dogs, particularly those that have been spayed, can be a distressing condition for both the pet and its owner. Fortunately, effective treatments are available, and Incurin® (estriol) tablets offer a promising solution. This article delves into the causes, symptoms, and the therapeutic benefits of Incurin for managing this common canine health issue.
What is Canine Urinary Incontinence?
Canine urinary incontinence is the involuntary loss of urine. While it can affect dogs of any age or sex, it is most commonly observed in spayed female dogs. This condition is often linked to hormonal imbalances, specifically a deficiency in estrogen. After a female dog is spayed (ovariohysterectomized), her estrogen levels decrease, which can lead to weakened urethral sphincter muscles, resulting in urine leakage.
Introducing Incurin®: A Targeted Treatment
Incurin® is a veterinary medication containing estriol, a naturally occurring estrogen hormone that is short-acting and specifically found in female dogs. Its primary indication is for the control of estrogen-responsive urinary incontinence in ovariohysterectomized female dogs. The convenience of once-a-day dosing makes it a practical choice for pet owners.
How Incurin® Works
Estriol works by binding to estrogen receptors, helping to strengthen the urethral sphincter muscles. This action restores a dog’s ability to control urination, significantly reducing or eliminating embarrassing and unhygienic accidents. Studies have shown remarkable efficacy, with approximately 93% of dogs treated with Incurin® experiencing improvement or regaining full continence within six weeks of treatment.
Key Features and Benefits of Incurin®
- Proven Effectiveness: Clinical studies demonstrate a high success rate in reducing or eliminating urinary incontinence.
- Rapid Improvement: A significant majority of treated dogs show noticeable improvement within weeks.
- Convenient Dosing: The medication is administered orally once a day, simplifying treatment for pet owners.
- Versatile Dosage: A single starting dose is suitable for all female dogs, and the tablets are available in one convenient size.
- Titratable Dosage: The dosage can be adjusted to the lowest effective level for each individual dog, minimizing potential side effects.
Safety and Administration of Incurin®
Incurin® has a favorable safety profile, supported by extensive research and years of global use. A long-term field study involving 324 client-owned spayed female dogs indicated good tolerability. The short receptor binding time of estriol helps to limit estrogen-related side effects.
Dosage Guidelines
All dogs begin treatment with a once-daily dose of two 1 mg Incurin® tablets, regardless of their body weight. Following initial control of incontinence, the dosage is carefully titrated downwards to the lowest effective dose. This is achieved by gradually reducing the amount given, ensuring the dog remains continent. Adjustments are made cautiously, with at least seven days between each change. The maximum recommended daily dose is 2 mg (two 1-mg tablets). If a dog does not respond to this dosage, a re-evaluation of the diagnosis is necessary.
Potential Side Effects
While generally well-tolerated, some side effects have been reported under field conditions. These may include loss of appetite, vomiting, increased thirst, and vulvar swelling. The safety and effectiveness of Incurin® have not been evaluated in dogs under one year of age, intact female dogs, male dogs, dogs intended for breeding, or lactating dogs. It is contraindicated in pregnant dogs or those exhibiting excessive urination secondary to excessive thirst.
Understanding the Product Label
For comprehensive information, including detailed dosing instructions, warnings, and contraindications, it is crucial to refer to the official Incurin® product label. This document provides the most up-to-date and complete information for veterinarians and pet owners.
Conclusion
Incurin® (estriol) tablets offer an effective and safe treatment option for estrogen-responsive urinary incontinence in spayed female dogs. By helping to restore urethral sphincter tone, Incurin® significantly improves the quality of life for affected dogs and their owners. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine if Incurin® is the right choice for your dog and to ensure proper administration and dosage management.
References:
- Incurin (estriol) Tablets for Dogs [Freedom of Information Summary]. Madison, NJ: Intervet Inc.; 2011.
- Data on file, Merck Animal Health.
- Clark JH, Hardin JW, McCormack SA. Mechanism of estrogen agonists and antagonists. J Anim Sci. 1979;49:46–65.
- Clark JH, Markaverich BM. The agonistic and antagonistic actions of estriol. J Steroid Biochem. 1984;20(4B):1005–1013.
