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Ovaban-birth control

Note from Dr. McKee: This is a drug that we almost NEVER recommend. We occasionally use it for purposes other than it's "labeled" intent but quite rarely. We consider ovariohysterectomy the safest method of birth control in dogs and cats at this time and do not consider this an appropriate choice in most cases.

Progestin in the form of megestrol acetate (Ovaban) is used to postpone heat cycles in dogs and as a treatment for false pregnancy. It has also been used to treat certain skin conditions in cats. Because of its severe side effects, and the availablity of other therapies, Ovaban should only be used as a last resort. Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences increased thirst or urination, depression, mammary gland enlargement, temperament changes, vaginal discharge, vomiting, or yellow gums while being treated with Ovaban.

Generic Name
Megestrol Acetate

Brand Name
Ovaban

Type of Drug
Hormones

Form and Storage
Tablets
Store at room temperature.

Indication for Use
Used to postpone estrus (female's heat cycle) and help end a false pregnancy.

General Information
Megestrol acetate is FDA approved for use in dogs. Available by prescription. This medication is not used as frequently due to development of newer and safer medications; it is prescribed with utmost caution. Progesterone and other progestins are produced by the female's ovaries and by the placenta. They regulate "heat" cycles, prepare the body for pregnancy, maintain pregnancy, and stimulate milk production. Progestins have the opposite effect as testosterone, and they have been used without FDA approval to reduce male sexual behaviors including fighting, roaming, inappropriate mounting, and other behaviors. Need to use behavior training at the same time. Other treatments including neutering and behavior training are preferred due to the potential side effects of the medication. Progestins have also been used to treat types of inflammation and immune-mediated diseases although corticosteroids are preferred if they work. Megestrol acetate is used in cats for treatment of behavior problems.

Usual Dose and Administration
Estrus suppression: depends on stage of cycle when start. Consult your veterinarian. Best results if start within first 3 days of proestrus. Treatment of false pregnancy: given daily for 8 days. Consult your veterinarian for dose. Pills may be given whole or crushed and given with food.

Side Effects
May see mammary enlargement or tumors; milk production; listlessness; increased appetite, thirst, and urination; bone marrow suppression; temperament changes; or uterine changes including pyometra (infection) and infertility. Cats may develop Addison's disease, diabetes, or liver damage.

Contraindications/Warnings

• Do not use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to it.
• Do not give for more than 2 consecutive treatments.
• Time to return to estrus ranges from 2-9 months after treatment.
• Do not use in dogs prior to or during their first estrus cycle or in dogs with abnormal estrus cycles.
• Not for use in pregnant dogs. Use in last half of pregnancy may result in small litters and dead puppies.
• Not for use in dogs with diabetes mellitus, mammary tumors, uterine disease, or other disorders of the reproductive organs.
• Do not use in pets with glaucoma or thyroid disease.
• Do not allow dogs to become pregnant within 30 days of using the medication.
• Need to complete the full length of treatment for desired effects.
• May need to give corticosteroids if using progestins during times of stress due to the adrenal gland suppression.

Drug or Food Interactions

• May have decreased effect if used with rifampin.
• Increased suppression of adrenal glands if used with corticosteroids.
• May increase amount of insulin needed to control diabetes mellitus.
• No known food interactions.

Overdose/Toxicity
No specific information is available. Contact your veterinarian or the Animal Poison Control Center if you think your pet may have accidentally received or been given an overdose of the medication.

The information on this page was obtained from the site www.peteducation.com