General Drug Information and Indications

Trilostane is a synthetic enzyme inhibiting drug that is used to treat Cushing’s disease in dogs and cats. Trilostane decreases the production of excessive cortisol hormone by the adrenal gland. This disease is not cured by Trilostane but can be managed successfully.

Before treatment is started, your veterinarian will perform routine blood-tests and a urinalysis, followed by more specialized blood tests to confirm the diagnosis of Cushing’s disease. Your dog usually will start to respond to Trilostane therapy within two to four weeks. Researchers report that Trilostane is effective in about 80% of treated dogs. Although most dogs tolerate Trilostane well, there is a wide range of individual variation regarding dose and your veterinarian will need to monitor your dog closely, particularly at the beginning of treatment.

Trilostane also may be used to treat Cushing’s disease in cats. Cushing’s disease is quite rare in the cat and it may not respond as well. Frequently cats with Cushing’s disease also have underlying diabetes mellitus. Trilostane does not appear to change their insulin requirements.

Trilostane was approved recently by the FDA for use in animals. In some instances the appropriate size and dose is not available from the pharmaceutical manufacturer, and in those circumstances, it may be compounded by a specialty pharmacy.

How to Give this Medication

Give this medication to your pet exactly as your veterinarian prescribes. If you miss giving your pet a dose of Trilostane, give the next dose as soon as you remember or, if it is close to the next scheduled dose, return to the regular schedule. Do not double dose to catch up.

Oral Trilostane is absorbed rapidly and usually is given with food.