With a potent anti-inflammatory effect, corticosteroids for dogs are a medication that often generates many doubts in pet parents. Although it is indicated for the treatment of some health problems, such as canine allergies and dermatitis, veterinary corticosteroids can pose a danger to dogs, especially if used continuously and without professional monitoring. Therefore, it isIt is essential to pay attention to the effects of corticosteroids on dogs to ensure that nothing bad happens. To better understand what corticosteroids for dogs are for, in which cases the drug is indicated and what are the contraindications, we talked to veterinarian Lucas Zagatto, from São Paulo. See what he explained!

How does corticosteroid for dogs work?

Corticoid for dogs is actually a hormone produced by the canine organism itself and which is usually released in certain situations. As Lucas explains, corticoid is produced from the cholesterol molecule in the cortex (outermost region) of the adrenal glands. "Its production and secretion are regulated through a feedback mechanism, that is, when there isexcessive release of corticoids by the adrenals, the secreted substance itself acts on different points in the brain, causing it to reduce its secretion." This release, in turn, is regulated by various stimuli, such as pain, stress, temperature, physical exercise, among others.

And how does corticosteroid for dogs work anyway? The vet answers: "Corticosteroid for dogs has several effects, including a potent anti-inflammatory effect, often superior to other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs."

In which cases is corticosteroid medication for dogs indicated?

According to the specialist, corticoid for dogs is used as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, being a synthetic hormone "more potent." Among the most common clinical indications for corticoid use, Lucas highlights: "Dermatology, ophthalmology, musculoskeletal changes, various inflammations, various metabolic problems, reproductive changes, cases of hypersensitivity and hypersensitivity.allergic conditions, oncological treatments as immunosuppressant in autoimmune diseases".

Still, it is essential to seek advice from a veterinarian before starting to use corticosteroids. Dogs should never be self-medicated - just like any other medicine, such as antibiotics for dogs - and should always be closely monitored by a professional in the field. There are also different types of the drug, such as corticosteroid ointment for dogs, tablets, cream or liquidinjectable.

It is also worth remembering that there is a difference between human corticosteroids and veterinary corticosteroids. "The difference is their dosages. In addition, they are classified according to their time of action in the body and their potency, forming three main groups: short-acting, intermediate-acting and long-acting", explains Lucas. To know the right dosage of corticosteroids for dogs, the evaluation of a veterinarian is essential.veterinary doctor is indispensable.

What are the effects of corticosteroids on dogs?

It is important to note that the effect of corticosteroids for dogs usually happens when the drug is used inappropriately, without proper professional guidance. In this sense, some behavioral changes can be observed, such as agitation, impatience and excessive barking. On the other hand, the veterinarian also warns that the effects of corticosteroids on the dog areconsidered nonspecific, as they act on the whole body and not just the site of inflammation.

Even so, it is possible to notice some manifestations, according to Lucas: "Some of the side effects of corticosteroids for dogs may include unwanted immunosuppression, iatrogenic hyperadrenocorticism, liver changes, gastric ulcers, hyperglycemia, cataracts, among others. In prolonged therapies, frequent monitoring, with physical examination and complementary tests is an important part of the treatment.how to assess the effects of corticosteroids in dogs".

Care with the use of corticosteroids for dogs

Veterinarians play an important role in taking care of animal health, so it is important to respect all the guidelines given by them, such as the dosage of corticosteroids for dogs and the duration of treatment. In some scenarios, these precautions must be even greater, as the continuous use of corticosteroids for dogs can be problematic. "It is necessary to be careful in thecases of renal failure, diabetes mellitus, canine pregnancy, chronic bacterial or viral infections, systemic or deep mycoses, ocular processes with corneal or chronic viral impairment", he emphasizes.