Cardisan Chewable Tablets for Dogs

Cardisan Chewable Tablets are a prescription-only veterinary medicine used in the management of congestive heart failure in dogs.

Cardisan contains pimobendan, a medication that improves the heart’s ability to pump blood while also helping blood vessels relax. This dual action can improve circulation and reduce the workload placed on the heart.

Cardisan is prescribed for dogs with congestive heart failure caused by dilated cardiomyopathy or valvular insufficiency, including mitral and/or tricuspid valve regurgitation.

Cardisan is supplied as a flavoured chewable tablet and is usually administered twice daily as part of a long-term treatment plan determined by the prescribing veterinary surgeon.

The tablets have a cross-shaped score line and can be divided into two or four equal parts to allow accurate dosing.

This product is a prescription-only veterinary medicine (POM-V) and can only be supplied against a valid veterinary prescription.

What Cardisan is used for

Cardisan is used to manage congestive heart failure in dogs, particularly conditions that reduce the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively.

The conditions treated with Cardisan include congestive heart failure caused by dilated cardiomyopathy and valvular insufficiency, including mitral or tricuspid valve regurgitation.

These conditions can lead to fluid accumulation in the lungs or abdomen, coughing, rapid breathing, reduced exercise tolerance, weakness and fatigue.

By improving cardiac output and reducing the strain placed on the heart, Cardisan can help improve quality of life when used as part of an appropriate veterinary treatment plan.

How Cardisan works

Pimobendan works through two complementary mechanisms.

First, it acts as a positive inotrope, meaning it increases the strength of heart muscle contractions. This allows the heart to pump blood more effectively throughout the body.

Second, it acts as a vasodilator, relaxing blood vessels and reducing resistance to blood flow. This decreases the workload placed on the heart and improves circulation.

Together, these effects help support cardiac function in dogs with congestive heart failure.

Further information including contraindications, warnings and potential side effects can be found in the official product information available here.

Frequently asked questions

What is Cardisan used for in dogs?

Cardisan is used to treat congestive heart failure caused by dilated cardiomyopathy or valvular insufficiency, including mitral and tricuspid valve regurgitation.

Is Cardisan the same as Vetmedin?

Cardisan and Vetmedin both contain the active ingredient pimobendan. They are different authorised veterinary products and should only be supplied in accordance with the product and strength stated on the veterinary prescription.

How long do dogs stay on Cardisan?

Dogs with congestive heart failure may remain on Cardisan for the rest of their lives. Treatment duration and dose adjustments will be determined by the prescribing veterinary surgeon.

Does Cardisan cure heart disease?

Heart disease in dogs is generally a chronic condition that cannot be cured. Cardisan helps manage the condition by improving heart function and supporting circulation.

Should Cardisan be given with food?

Cardisan should be administered approximately one hour before feeding. Giving pimobendan with food or shortly afterwards may reduce its absorption.

Can Cardisan tablets be divided?

Yes. Cardisan tablets have a cross-shaped score line and can be divided into two or four equal parts where required to provide the prescribed dose.

What signs of heart disease might dogs show?

Signs may include coughing, rapid or laboured breathing, reduced exercise tolerance, lethargy, weakness, fainting and fluid accumulation in the chest or abdomen. Dogs showing these signs should be assessed by a veterinary surgeon.