What is the treatment for hypoadrenocorticism in dogs?

Answer 1

Hypoadrencorticism is a metabolic disorder caused by insufficient hormones produced by the adrenal gland. There are two types of hypoadrenocorticism: glucocorticoid insufficiency and mineralocorticoid insufficiency.

A glucocorticoid insufficiency is more common and is generally treated with oral cortisol tablets for the remainder of the dog's life. The specific drug (there are several, each with slightly different potencies and side effects), the doseage amount and the frequency of administration will need to be determined by your veterinarian.

A mineralocorticoid insufficiency is less common but can be immediately life-threatening if severe enough. This is treated with oral cortisol tablets in addition to mineralocorticoid supplements and possibly electrolyte tablets as well. As with a glucocorticoid insufficiency, the specific drugs, doseage amounts and frequency of administration will need to be determined by your veterinarian.

In addition, you should have an "emergency stress dose" available for your dog in case of unexpected stress. Common examples include relatives visiting for the holidays, a stay in the kennel, a severe thunderstorm when your dog is anxious about thunder, etc. Because the glucocorticoids are involved in maintaining balance through a stress response, your dog may need additional medication during stressful moments in his life. These should be done in consultation with your veterinarian to ensure you don't overdose your dog.