Upcard is a prescription medication used to manage the symptoms of congestive heart failure (CHF) in dogs. Upcard contains the active ingredient torasemide, which is a type of loop diuretic. Diuretics are commonly prescribed in veterinary cardiology to remove excess fluid that builds up in the body as a result of heart failure.
Upcard for Dogs is available as flavoured tablets and is administered orally, once daily, under the guidance of a veterinary surgeon.
What is Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs?
Congestive heart failure in dogs occurs when the heart is no longer able to pump blood effectively throughout the body. As a result, blood backs up into the lungs or other parts of the body, causing fluid accumulation. This fluid retention leads to symptoms such as coughing, laboured breathing, reduced appetite, lethargy, and swelling in the abdomen or limbs. Congestive heart fai...
Upcard is a prescription medication used to manage the symptoms of congestive heart failure (CHF) in dogs. Upcard contains the active ingredient torasemide, which is a type of loop diuretic. Diuretics are commonly prescribed in veterinary cardiology to remove excess fluid that builds up in the body as a result of heart failure.
Upcard for Dogs is available as flavoured tablets and is administered orally, once daily, under the guidance of a veterinary surgeon.
What is Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs?
Congestive heart failure in dogs occurs when the heart is no longer able to pump blood effectively throughout the body. As a result, blood backs up into the lungs or other parts of the body, causing fluid accumulation. This fluid retention leads to symptoms such as coughing, laboured breathing, reduced appetite, lethargy, and swelling in the abdomen or limbs. Congestive heart failure is typically a progressive condition that requires ongoing medical management. There are several underlying causes of CHF in dogs, including chronic valve disease (particularly mitral valve disease), dilated cardiomyopathy, or congenital heart defects.
Smaller breeds are often more susceptible to valve-related heart disease, while larger breeds may be more prone to dilated cardiomyopathy. Regardless of the cause, the goal of treatment is to improve quality of life and reduce fluid retention, which places additional stress on the heart.
How Upcard Works
Upcard contains torasemide, which is a potent loop diuretic. It works by acting on the kidneys to reduce the reabsorption of sodium and chloride. This action leads to increased urine production and promotes the removal of excess fluid from the body. By reducing fluid buildup in the lungs and other tissues, Upcard helps to ease breathing and lessen the workload on the heart. Compared to other diuretics commonly used in veterinary medicine, such as furosemide, torasemide has a longer duration of action. This means it can be administered once per day, which may help improve compliance in long-term management of CHF. It is also known to produce a more predictable diuretic effect and may be effective in cases where furosemide has become less effective over time.
Administration and Dosage
Upcard tablets are available in different strengths to accommodate dogs of various sizes and to allow for precise dosing. The tablets are flavoured to improve palatability, although they can also be administered with food or hidden in a treat if necessary. The exact dosage and treatment plan should always be determined by a veterinary surgeon based on the dog’s weight, clinical condition, and response to other medications. Regular monitoring is essential to assess kidney function, electrolyte levels, and the effectiveness of the treatment. Owners should follow the prescribed dosage carefully and should not adjust the dose or frequency without veterinary advice. Sudden withdrawal or incorrect use can lead to a recurrence of symptoms or complications.
As with any medication, Upcard may cause side effects in some dogs. The most common effects are related to its diuretic activity. These include increased thirst and urination, dehydration, or changes in electrolyte levels. In some cases, there may be reduced appetite, vomiting, or lethargy. Regular veterinary monitoring is crucial during treatment with Upcard. Blood tests are usually performed to check kidney function and electrolyte balance, particularly potassium and sodium levels. If any abnormalities are detected, the dosage may need to be adjusted or additional supportive treatments introduced. Dogs with existing kidney disease, liver problems, or electrolyte imbalances may require special consideration before beginning treatment with Upcard. The use of Upcard in combination with other heart medications, such as ACE inhibitors, pimobendan, or spironolactone, is common in CHF management but should be done under veterinary supervision.
UpCard Tablets are available in the following strengths:
VETERINARY PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED
0.75mg Upcard contains torasemide, a once daily, flavoured, easily-divisible loop diuretic for dogs.
Upcard 0.75mg Tablets are an innovative treatment for congestive heart failure in dogs. They contain the active ingredient Torasemide, which is a loop-diuretic to treat fluid overload due to heart failure, kidney failure, liver disease and high blood pressure.
VETERINARY PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED
3mg Upcard Tablets for Dogs contain torasemide, a once daily, flavoured, easily-divisible loop diuretic for dogs. Upcard 3mg Tablets are used for treatment of clinical signs, including oedema and effusion, related to congestive heart failure in dogs. Upcard works by enhancing the ability of the heart to contract and relax. VETERINARY PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED
7.5mg Upcard contains torasemide, a once daily, flavoured, easily-divisible loop diuretic for dogs. VETERINARY PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED
