Product Information

Description

Product details

Vetmedin Chewable Tablets for Dogs are indicated for the management of the signs of mild, moderate, or severe congestive heart failure in dogs due to clinical myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) or dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

Recommended for dogs diagnosed with congestive heart failure (CHF)⁴ due to clinical myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) or dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).
According to published studies, helps extend the survival time and improve the quality of life in dogs with heart failure^2,3.
Available as a highly palatable, beef-flavored chewable tablet in 4 convenient dosing sizes (1.25 mg, 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg)⁵ for small, medium, large, and extra-large dogs.
Tablets are half-scored to meet the dosing needs of patients who prefer chews.
Meets FDA standards of product efficacy, stability, and strength.

VETMEDIN® (pimobendan) Chewable Tablets is an inodilator approved by the FDA¹ that according to published studies, helps extend the survival time and improves quality of life in dogs with congestive heart failure (CHF) due to clinical myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) or dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).^2,3

Given every 12 hours, the unique dual mode of action of VETMEDIN BRAND dilates the blood vessels carrying blood to and from the heart—reducing the preload and afterload on the heart—while simultaneously improving contractility of the heart muscle.¹ VETMEDIN is administered orally as a highly palatable, beef-flavored chewable tablet, making dosing easy for veterinarians and dog owners alike.

Pimobendan, the active ingredient in VETMEDIN, reduces stress on the heart while increasing cardiac output, without raising oxygen or energy consumption. VETMEDIN helps dogs engage in the daily activities they enjoy.

Increasing age is a risk factor for heart disease and heart failure.⁴ According to published studies, with early diagnosis and treatment of clinical signs, you can extend your dog’s survival time and improve their quality of life.^2,3 Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about VETMEDIN if your dog is in heart failure to determine the proper treatment for your pet.

References:

1. VETMEDIN® (pimobendan) Chewable Tablets [Freedom of Information Summary; NADA 141-273]. St. Joseph, MO: Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc.; 2007.

2. Häggström J, Boswood A, O’Grady M, et al. Effect of pimobendan or benazepril hydrochloride on survival times in dogs with congestive heart failure caused by naturally occurring myxomatous mitral valve disease: the QUEST study. J Vet Intern Med. 2008;22(5):1124-1135.

3. Lombard CW, Jöns O, Bussadori CM; for the VetSCOPE Study. Clinical efficacy of pimobendan versus benazepril for the treatment of acquired atrioventricular valvular disease in dogs. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc. 2006;42(4):249-261.

4. Keene et al ACVIM consensus guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of myxomatous mitral valve disease in dogs. J Vet Intern Med 2019.

5. VETMEDIN® (pimobendan) Chewable Tablets [package insert]. St. Joseph, MO: Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc.; 2021.

Product sourced directly from the manufacturer or their approved distributor. Guaranteed genuine product backed by the manufacturer.

For

Dogs

Active ingredient(s)

Pimobendan

Inactive ingredients

Complete inactive ingredients list not provided by manufacturer.

Brand names

Vetmedin, Vetmedin-CA1

Drug class

Inodilator

Product flavoring

Vetmedin Chewable Tablets for Dogs are “beef” flavored.

*Contains pork (does not contain actual beef or chicken)

Manufacturer

Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health USA

Product strength & size

Vetmedin Chewable Tablets may be available in multiple strengths and/or sizes. Please ensure the selected product is appropriate for your pet, as recommended by your veterinarian.

For current availability, please refer to the product selection above.

Usage

*For complete product information, please review the full prescribing information in the manufacturer package insert.

Vetmedin Chewable Tablets should be given orally as directed by your veterinarian. Please consult your veterinarian before making any changes or discontinuing the prescribed dosing schedule.

It is important to be consistent with how the medication is given (e.g., timing, with or without food) for every dose.

Manufacturer Dosage and Administration:

VETMEDIN (pimobendan) Chewable Tablets should be administered orally at a total daily dose of 0.23 mg/lb (0.5 mg/kg) body weight, using a suitable combination of whole or half tablets.

The total daily dose should be divided into two portions that are not necessarily equal, and the portions should be administered approximately 12 hours apart (i.e., morning and evening).

The tablets are scored, and the calculated dosage should be provided to the nearest half-tablet increment.

Missed doses

Administer the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give more medication than prescribed or two doses at once.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place at a controlled room temperature (68 to 77°F, excursions permitted between 59 and 86°F). Keep in a tight, light-resistant container and out of the reach of children and pets. Store away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

Side effects

The most common side effects of this medication are poor appetite, lethargy, diarrhea, shortness of breath, weakness, and ataxia (lack of muscle control and coordination).

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet has difficulty breathing, collapses or loses consciousness, has a seizure, or appears to be bloated/have increased belly fluid.

Notify your veterinarian if your pet experiences any of the effects described above, or if you notice any other side effects that are persistent or troublesome.

If you notice anything unusual, please consult your veterinarian.

Precautions

*For complete product information including warnings and precautions, please refer to the manufacturer package insert.

For oral use in dogs with clinical evidence of heart failure only- not for use in humans. Keep this and all medications in a secure location out of reach of children and animals to prevent accidental ingestion or overdose. Consult a physician in case of accidental ingestion by humans.

Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.

VETMEDIN should not be given in cases of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, aortic stenosis, or any other clinical condition where an augmentation of cardiac output is inappropriate for functional or anatomical reasons.

The safety of VETMEDIN® (pimobendan) Chewable Tablets has not been established in dogs with asymptomatic heart disease or in heart failure caused by etiologies other than MMVD or DCM. The safe use of VETMEDIN has not been evaluated in dogs younger than 6 months of age, dogs with congenital heart defects, dogs with diabetes mellitus or other serious metabolic diseases, or in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs.

Do not administer to animals with a known history or suspected allergy/hypersensitivity to this medication or any of its ingredients. Allergic reactions to medications may occur. Be sure to inform Vetsource and your veterinarian if your pet has any known drug sensitivities or allergies.

If your pet displays symptoms of an allergic reaction, discontinue therapy and call your veterinarian immediately or seek emergency veterinary attention. Symptoms may include (but are not limited to): swollen lips, tongue, face, or airways; difficulty breathing; agitation; profuse salivation; and widespread hives or itching.

Drug and food interactions

The following drugs* may have potential interactions with this medication: beta blockers (e.g., atenolol, sotalol), calcium channel blockers (e.g., amlodipine, diltiazem), and sildenafil.

*NOTE: this may not be a comprehensive list. Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.

Please ensure your veterinarian is aware of all medications and supplements that your pet is currently receiving. Your veterinarian may prescribe multiple medications, even if a potential drug interaction may occur. In these instances, your veterinarian may adjust the dosages or monitor your pet more closely.

Adverse reactions

If you are concerned that your pet has experienced an adverse reaction to this medication, please contact the manufacturer Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health USA at 1-888-637-4251 or Vetsource Pet Owner Care at 877-738-4443.

Overdose

If you have any reason to suspect an overdose, call your doctor/veterinarian or the appropriate poison control resource immediately.

For humans:

The national toll-free Poison Help line, 1-800-222-1222, will connect you to your local poison center in case of emergency. This service is available nationwide and in most U.S. territories.

For animals:

The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at 888-426-4435.

Pet Poison Helpline® also provides a 24/7 animal poison control service at 855-764-7661.

*Please note: this information is for third-party services and is provided for convenience in case of potential poison-related emergencies. There may be consultation fee for these services.

Disclaimer

The content provided on this page is NOT medical advice.

All content, including the images and product description above, is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional veterinary consultation, diagnosis, or treatment.

Consult your veterinarian for complete information about this product and how it fits into your pet's individual treatment plan.

Last revised: 8/01/2025

Description
Product details
Vetmedin Chewable Tablets for Dogs are indicated for the management of the signs of mild, moderate, or severe congestive heart failure in dogs due to clinical myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) or dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).
- Recommended for dogs diagnosed with congestive heart failure (CHF)⁴ due to clinical myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) or dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).
- According to published studies, helps extend the survival time and improve the quality of life in dogs with heart failure^2,3.
- Available as a highly palatable, beef-flavored chewable tablet in 4 convenient dosing sizes (1.25 mg, 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg)⁵ for small, medium, large, and extra-large dogs.
- Tablets are half-scored to meet the dosing needs of patients who prefer chews.
- Meets FDA standards of product efficacy, stability, and strength.
VETMEDIN® (pimobendan) Chewable Tablets is an inodilator approved by the FDA¹ that according to published studies, helps extend the survival time and improves quality of life in dogs with congestive heart failure (CHF) due to clinical myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) or dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).^2,3

Given every 12 hours, the unique dual mode of action of VETMEDIN BRAND dilates the blood vessels carrying blood to and from the heart—reducing the preload and afterload on the heart—while simultaneously improving contractility of the heart muscle.¹ VETMEDIN is administered orally as a highly palatable, beef-flavored chewable tablet, making dosing easy for veterinarians and dog owners alike.

Pimobendan, the active ingredient in VETMEDIN, reduces stress on the heart while increasing cardiac output, without raising oxygen or energy consumption. VETMEDIN helps dogs engage in the daily activities they enjoy.

Increasing age is a risk factor for heart disease and heart failure.⁴ According to published studies, with early diagnosis and treatment of clinical signs, you can extend your dog’s survival time and improve their quality of life.^2,3 Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about VETMEDIN if your dog is in heart failure to determine the proper treatment for your pet.

References:
1. VETMEDIN® (pimobendan) Chewable Tablets [Freedom of Information Summary; NADA 141-273]. St. Joseph, MO: Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc.; 2007.
2. Häggström J, Boswood A, O’Grady M, et al. Effect of pimobendan or benazepril hydrochloride on survival times in dogs with congestive heart failure caused by naturally occurring myxomatous mitral valve disease: the QUEST study. J Vet Intern Med. 2008;22(5):1124-1135.
3. Lombard CW, Jöns O, Bussadori CM; for the VetSCOPE Study. Clinical efficacy of pimobendan versus benazepril for the treatment of acquired atrioventricular valvular disease in dogs. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc. 2006;42(4):249-261.
4. Keene et al ACVIM consensus guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of myxomatous mitral valve disease in dogs. J Vet Intern Med 2019.
5. VETMEDIN® (pimobendan) Chewable Tablets [package insert]. St. Joseph, MO: Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc.; 2021.

Product sourced directly from the manufacturer or their approved distributor. Guaranteed genuine product backed by the manufacturer.

For
Dogs

Active ingredient(s)
Pimobendan

Inactive ingredients
Complete inactive ingredients list not provided by manufacturer.

Brand names
Vetmedin, Vetmedin-CA1

Drug class
Inodilator

Product flavoring
Vetmedin Chewable Tablets for Dogs are “beef” flavored.
*Contains pork (does not contain actual beef or chicken)

Manufacturer
Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health USA

Product strength & size
Vetmedin Chewable Tablets may be available in multiple strengths and/or sizes. Please ensure the selected product is appropriate for your pet, as recommended by your veterinarian.
For current availability, please refer to the product selection above.

Usage
*For complete product information, please review the full prescribing information in the manufacturer package insert.

Vetmedin Chewable Tablets should be given orally as directed by your veterinarian. Please consult your veterinarian before making any changes or discontinuing the prescribed dosing schedule.
It is important to be consistent with how the medication is given (e.g., timing, with or without food) for every dose.

Manufacturer Dosage and Administration:
VETMEDIN (pimobendan) Chewable Tablets should be administered orally at a total daily dose of 0.23 mg/lb (0.5 mg/kg) body weight, using a suitable combination of whole or half tablets.
The total daily dose should be divided into two portions that are not necessarily equal, and the portions should be administered approximately 12 hours apart (i.e., morning and evening).
The tablets are scored, and the calculated dosage should be provided to the nearest half-tablet increment.

Missed doses
Administer the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give more medication than prescribed or two doses at once.

Storage
Store in a cool, dry place at a controlled room temperature (68 to 77°F, excursions permitted between 59 and 86°F). Keep in a tight, light-resistant container and out of the reach of children and pets. Store away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

Side effects
The most common side effects of this medication are poor appetite, lethargy, diarrhea, shortness of breath, weakness, and ataxia (lack of muscle control and coordination).

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet has difficulty breathing, collapses or loses consciousness, has a seizure, or appears to be bloated/have increased belly fluid.

Notify your veterinarian if your pet experiences any of the effects described above, or if you notice any other side effects that are persistent or troublesome.
If you notice anything unusual, please consult your veterinarian.

Precautions
*For complete product information including warnings and precautions, please refer to the manufacturer package insert.

For oral use in dogs with clinical evidence of heart failure only- not for use in humans. Keep this and all medications in a secure location out of reach of children and animals to prevent accidental ingestion or overdose. Consult a physician in case of accidental ingestion by humans.
Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.

VETMEDIN should not be given in cases of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, aortic stenosis, or any other clinical condition where an augmentation of cardiac output is inappropriate for functional or anatomical reasons.

The safety of VETMEDIN® (pimobendan) Chewable Tablets has not been established in dogs with asymptomatic heart disease or in heart failure caused by etiologies other than MMVD or DCM. The safe use of VETMEDIN has not been evaluated in dogs younger than 6 months of age, dogs with congenital heart defects, dogs with diabetes mellitus or other serious metabolic diseases, or in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs.

Do not administer to animals with a known history or suspected allergy/hypersensitivity to this medication or any of its ingredients. Allergic reactions to medications may occur. Be sure to inform Vetsource and your veterinarian if your pet has any known drug sensitivities or allergies.
If your pet displays symptoms of an allergic reaction, discontinue therapy and call your veterinarian immediately or seek emergency veterinary attention. Symptoms may include (but are not limited to): swollen lips, tongue, face, or airways; difficulty breathing; agitation; profuse salivation; and widespread hives or itching.

Drug and food interactions
The following drugs* may have potential interactions with this medication: beta blockers (e.g., atenolol, sotalol), calcium channel blockers (e.g., amlodipine, diltiazem), and sildenafil.
*NOTE: this may not be a comprehensive list. Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.

Please ensure your veterinarian is aware of all medications and supplements that your pet is currently receiving. Your veterinarian may prescribe multiple medications, even if a potential drug interaction may occur. In these instances, your veterinarian may adjust the dosages or monitor your pet more closely.

Adverse reactions
If you are concerned that your pet has experienced an adverse reaction to this medication, please contact the manufacturer Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health USA at 1-888-637-4251 or Vetsource Pet Owner Care at 877-738-4443.

Overdose
If you have any reason to suspect an overdose, call your doctor/veterinarian or the appropriate poison control resource immediately.

For humans:
The national toll-free Poison Help line, 1-800-222-1222, will connect you to your local poison center in case of emergency. This service is available nationwide and in most U.S. territories.

For animals:
The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at 888-426-4435.
Pet Poison Helpline® also provides a 24/7 animal poison control service at 855-764-7661.

*Please note: this information is for third-party services and is provided for convenience in case of potential poison-related emergencies. There may be consultation fee for these services.

Disclaimer
The content provided on this page is NOT medical advice.
All content, including the images and product description above, is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional veterinary consultation, diagnosis, or treatment.
Consult your veterinarian for complete information about this product and how it fits into your pet's individual treatment plan.

Last revised: 8/01/2025
0 Reviews