Libeo
Libeo tasty chewable tablets for dogs can be prescribed by the veterinarian for the treatment of ascites (fluid in the abdominal cavity) and edema (fluid in, for example, the lungs or under the skin), mainly if caused by heart failure. The tablets are available in 10 mg and 40 mg. They are flavored and can be mixed with a little food. They can also be administered directly into the mouth.
Action of Libeo
In congestive heart failure, ascites or edema may develop, which can lead to severe shortness of breath and coughing. The active ingredient in Libeo is furosemide. Furosemide helps excess fluid from the abdomen, chest cavity, lungs, or other areas be excreted through the urine. Furosemide tablets are commonly referred to as "water pills." By losing extra fluid through urine, the vascular system becomes less "full." This lowers the blood pressure, and the heart is relieved because it does not have to pump as much blood.
Dosage of Libeo
The dosage should always be discussed with the veterinarian and adjusted according to the condition of the animal.
The recommended dosage is 1 to 5 mg of furosemide per kg of body weight daily, divided into one or two doses. Depending on the severity and response of the patient, the dosage may be doubled upon the veterinarian’s advice. For maintenance, the dose should be reduced by the veterinarian to the lowest effective dose.
Use 10 mg tablets for dogs up to 15 kg and 40 mg tablets for dogs weighing 15.1 to 50 kg.
Other Medications for Heart Disease
If your dog has been diagnosed with heart failure, the veterinarian will likely prescribe other medications as well. Several groups of medications are commonly combined with Libeo.
Medications that Improve Heart Muscle Contraction
The active ingredient pimobendan increases the strength of the heart muscle and relaxes the blood vessels, thereby improving the "output" of the heart. It is prescribed for a leaky heart valve (mitral insufficiency) and a specific form of heart muscle disease, dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Pimobendan is found in Cardisure, Pimotab, and Vetmedin. Fortekor Plus contains both pimobendan and an ACE inhibitor.
ACE Inhibitors
ACE inhibitors such as Benakor prevent the kidneys from unnecessarily retaining fluid and relax the blood vessels. ACE inhibitors cause a slight decrease in blood pressure. Other ACE inhibitors include: Cardalis (combined with a mild diuretic) and Fortekor. In the previously mentioned Fortekor Plus, besides an ACE inhibitor, pimobendan is also included.
Package Insert
Before use, read the Libeo package insert
If you have a question about Libeo, please contact us.