Ascites after Pimobendan (Vetmedin) in dogs

The FDA has received 24 reports of ascites in dogs after Pimobendan. That is 0.4% of all reports for this medicine, compared with 0.2% across reports for all dog medicines, so it is reported unusually often with this medicine.

24Reports

58%Marked serious

8.3%Recovered

38%Died or euthanised

–Typical onset

How the animals did

Recovered

2 8.3%

Still unwell when reported

2 8.3%

Died

6 25%

Euthanised

3 13%

Not known

11 46%

Problems reported at the same time

8 33%

6 25%

6 25%

5 21%

4 17%

4 17%

3 13%

Hypoproteinaemia

3 13%

Age of the animals

Under 1 year

1–3 years

4–7 years

8–11 years

12+ years

About this medicine

Pimobendan treats heart failure and some heart disease.

Products with this ingredient include Vetmedin. The FDA hides brand names in its public data, so these reports cover every product with the same active ingredients.

Questions owners ask

Can Pimobendan cause ascites in dogs?: 24 reports link the two, but a report alone does not prove the medicine was the cause: other illnesses, other medicines or coincidence can be involved. Your vet can judge it for your animal.
What should I do?: Don't give another dose until you've spoken to your vet, and keep the packaging so you can tell them the product and dose. Your vet can also report it to the FDA (or you can, through the manufacturer or FDA form 1932a).

All reported side effects of Pimobendan in dogs · Medicines most reported with ascites