Introduction to Pardale V Tablets: A Guide for Pet Owners
Introduction to Pardale V Tablets: A Guide for Pet Owners
As a pet owner, you may have encountered Pardale V, and wondered about its function and usage - especially in its move from over-the-counter to prescription only in the UK. This guide is designed to help you understand Pardale V tablets, a veterinary medicinal product prescribed for dogs.
In this article, we will explore the facts about these tablets, the reason they are dispensed on a prescription-only basis, and underscore the necessity of seeking veterinary advice prior to administering any form of medication to your pet.
What are Pardale V Tablets?
Pardale V tablets are a veterinary medicinal product prescribed for dogs for the management of pain. The tablets are a combination of two active ingredients: paracetamol and codeine. They may be prescribed after surgery, or to treat an acute trauma injury (as typical courses run for 5 days).
Why are Pardale V Tablets Prescription Only?
Pardale V tablets are classified as POM-V (short for Prescription Only Medication - Veterinarian). The main reason for this is to ensure their safe and effective use. Pain in a dog requires veterinary diagnosis and Pardale-V like all medicines can cause side effects. Classification of Pardale V as a prescription-only medication ensures that these tablets are used under the guidance and supervision of a licensed veterinarian, safeguarding your pet's health and wellbeing.
Though you can order these tablets online directly, they cannot be legally supplied without a valid veterinary prescription.
Why Would a Vet Prescribe Pardale V Tablets?
Veterinarians might prescribe Pardale V for various reasons. It is used to manage acute pain of traumatic origin, as a complementary treatment in pain associated with other conditions and for post operative pain relief.
Why Would a Dog Not Be Given Pardale V Tablets?
A vet might judge that Pardale-V is not suitable for a particular dog. Not all dogs can safely take Pardale V tablets. For instance, dogs with liver or kidney or heart disease or known hypersensitivity to paracetamol or codeine should not be given these tablets.
The Veterinary Cascade and Paracetamol
When a vet decides that Pardale V tablets are not suitable for a dog, they may apply the Veterinary Cascade – a decision-making process used by vets when no licensed veterinary medicine is available or suitable for the treatment of a specific animal. The cascade allows vets to prescribe human medicines like paracetamol, provided that no veterinary-licensed alternative is available, and the use is justified.
Paracetamol is a common over-the-counter painkiller for humans that is sometimes prescribed for use in dogs under veterinary supervision. However, it's critical to note that the dosage in dogs differs from that in humans, and an overdose can lead to severe liver damage. Therefore, pet owners should never administer paracetamol to their dogs without consulting a vet.
Conclusion
Pardale V tablets are a prescription veterinary medicinal product used for managing pain in dogs. While Pardale V provides effective pain relief in many cases, not all dogs are suitable candidates for this medication. Remember, it’s crucial to follow the advice of your veterinarian when medicating your animal. By understanding your pet's medications, you can ensure they receive the most effective treatment while minimising potential risks. Always consult your vet if you have any concerns or questions about your pet's health or their medication.