pantoprazole for dogs and cats

Pantoprazole (Protonix®, Pantoloc®) for Dogs and Cats

Overview of Using Pantoprazole in Dogs and Cats

Pantoprazole, also known by the brand names Protonix® and Pantoloc®, is used to prevent and treat stomach ulcers and gastric acid-related diseases in dogs and cats. It has been used in human medicine for years and is growing in popularity for use in dogs and cats.
Normally, the stomach produces gastric acid to assist in digestion. Under certain conditions, however, this acid can injure the lining (mucosa) of the stomach. The result can be stomach ulcers or erosions (“scratches”) in the stomach lining. Ulcers are also a common consequence of treatment with some drugs, especially NSAID drugs, such as aspirin.
When there is a risk of ulcer formation, there are many ways to heal the stomach or protect the lining. These anti-ulcer treatments can be classified as antacids (Maalox®), H2 blockers (Pepcid AC®), proton pump blockers (Prilosec®), and prostaglandin analogs, such as the drug Misoprostol and Pantoprazole.
Pantoprazole inhibits stomach acid secretions and has a protective effect on blood flow and the lining of the stomach wall.
Pantoprazole is a prescription drug and can only be obtained from a veterinarian or by prescription from a veterinarian.
This drug is not approved for use in animals by the Food and Drug Administration, but it is prescribed legally by veterinarians as an extra-label drug.

Pantoprazole is used to prevent and treat stomach ulcers.
Human studies suggest that pantoprazole has effects against Helicobacter pylori.

While generally safe and effective when prescribed by a veterinarian, Pantoprazole can cause side effects in some animals.
Pantoprazole should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug.
Pantoprazole may interact with other medications. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if other drugs your pet is receiving could interact with Pantoprazole. Such drugs include certain anti-fungal drugs such as ketoconazole and itraconazole, iron, thyroid supplements, sucralfate, and/or warfarin.
The most common adverse effect is diarrhea.

Pantoprazole is available in delayed-release tablets in 20 mg and 40 mg sizes.
It is available as an oral suspension at 40 mg.
It is available as in injection in 40 mg vials (Protonix I.V. ®). When reconstituted, the product is mixed as labeled and is stable for up to two hours at room temperature. If diluted, it can be stable for up to 22 hours at room temperature.

Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian. If you’re concerned about costs related to medication, click here to learn how pet insurance may be able to help.
It is recommended to administer this medication with food first thing in the morning.
Do not break or cut tablets.
Pantoprazole is commonly dosed at 0.3 to 0.45 mg per pound (0.7 to 1 mg/kg) once daily. It can be given intravenously (IV) or orally. Do not give intramuscularly (IM) or subcutaneously (SQ). When given, IV should be administered slowly over 15 minutes.
The duration of administration depends on the condition being treated, response to the medication, and the development of any adverse effects. Be certain to complete the prescription unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. Even if your dog or cat feels better, the entire treatment plan should be completed to prevent relapse.

Bersenas A. Effects of ranitidine, famotidine, pantoprazole, and omeprazole on intragastric pH in dogs. AJVR, 2005.
ASPCA Pet Poison Hotline
Current Veterinary Therapy XV, Bonagura, and Twedt
Pet Poison Helpline
Plumb’s Veterinary Handbook by Donald C. Plumb, 9th Edition
Textbook of Veterinary Internal Medicine, Ettinger & Felman