Cardisure Flavoured Tablets for Dogs

PRESCRIPTION NEEDED (POM-V)

Cardisure Flavoured Tablets for Dogs contain pimobendan, used to treat canine congestive heart failure (CHF) originating from valvular insufficiency (mitral and/or tricuspid regurgitation) or dilated cardiomyopathy. CHF can cause fluid to build up in the lungs or abdomen, leading to coughing, breathing difficulty, reduced exercise tolerance and lethargy.

Cardisure is usually one part of a wider heart failure treatment plan, which may also include diuretics, other heart medicines, and tailored exercise and diet.

Pack sizes and prices

Each strength of Cardisure is supplied as a pack of 100 tablets:

Cardisure 1.25mg – 100 tablets
Cardisure 2.5mg – 100 tablets
Cardisure 5mg – 100 tablets
Cardisure 10mg – 100 tablets

Your vet will calculate the correct daily dose from your dog’s bodyweight and choose the strength (or combination of strengths) needed to reach it. Some tablets are scored so they can be divided; only split tablets if your vet has specifically told you to.

How Cardisure works

Pimobendan works in two ways:

Positive inotrope – increases the strength of the heart’s contractions, helping it pump more effectively.
Vasodilator – widens blood vessels, reducing the pressure the heart has to work against.

Together, these effects help a failing heart work more efficiently, which can improve breathing, exercise tolerance and quality of life.

How Cardisure is given

Cardisure should be given on an empty stomach, at least one hour before food, as absorption is reduced when given with feed. It is usually given twice daily, around 12 hours apart, at the dose and schedule your vet prescribes.

Give the exact number and strength of tablets prescribed for your dog’s weight
Try to give doses at the same times each day
Do not change the dose or stop treatment suddenly without speaking to your vet
If you miss a dose, contact your vet rather than doubling the next one

Heart disease is usually a long-term condition, so Cardisure is often given as lifelong therapy.

Monitoring

Dogs on Cardisure should be reviewed regularly by their vet, who will assess heart sounds, breathing, weight and general condition, and may recommend follow-up tests such as chest X-rays or echocardiography. Diabetic dogs and dogs with severe liver impairment need closer monitoring, as advised by your vet.

Contraindications and precautions

Cardisure should not be used in dogs with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or in conditions where increasing cardiac output is not possible for functional or anatomical reasons (for example, severe aortic stenosis). Tell your vet about any other health problems or medicines before starting treatment.

Possible side effects

As with any medicine, some dogs may experience side effects. Reported effects include:

Increased heart rate, or increased mitral valve regurgitation (rare)
Vomiting, diarrhoea, reduced appetite or lethargy (rare, usually transient)
Mucosal petechiae or subcutaneous bruising (very rare)

Contact your vet if you notice any of these signs, or anything else that concerns you.

Handling advice for owners

Cardisure is for animal use only. Store tablets in their original packaging, out of reach of children and other animals, and wash your hands after giving the medication. If a person accidentally swallows a tablet, seek medical advice immediately and show the packaging to the doctor.

Frequently asked questions

Is Cardisure a prescription-only medicine?
Yes. Cardisure is POM-V. Your dog must be examined by a vet and you must have a valid prescription before it can be supplied.

Will my dog need Cardisure for life?
Many dogs with congestive heart failure need long-term or lifelong medication. Your vet will review your dog regularly and may adjust treatment as the condition changes.

Can I split Cardisure tablets?
Some strengths are scored so they can be divided, but only split tablets if your vet has told you to.

Always follow the directions on your dog’s prescription, the product label and the package leaflet. Speak to your vet with any questions about dosing or side effects.

Download the datasheet here

Visit the manufacturer’s website here

View current product information on the VMD Product Information Database