Fortekor Plus

Fortekor Plus Tablets are a veterinary prescription medicine used to treat congestive heart failure (CHF) in dogs. This condition affects the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently, leading to a variety of health complications. Fortekor Plus is formulated to improve cardiac function and quality of life in dogs with heart failure. It combines two active ingredients: benazepril hydrochloride and pimobendan. Each component works in a different way to support the heart and circulatory system.

VETERINARY PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED

Fortekor Plus is available in multiple strengths to suit dogs of different sizes and is administered orally. It is typically prescribed by a veterinarian after a diagnosis of heart failure has been confirmed.

What is Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs?

Congestive heart failure occurs when a dog’s heart cannot circulate blood effectively. This inefficiency leads to a build-up of fluid in the lungs, abdomen, or other areas of the body. CHF in dogs is often caused by underlying heart disease, such as degenerative mitral valve disease or dilated cardiomyopathy.

As the heart weakens, it struggles to deliver enough oxygen and nutrients to the tissues. This results in fatigue, coughing, laboured breathing, reduced exercise tolerance, and in some cases, fainting episodes. Over time, the condition worsens without appropriate treatment, which is why early diagnosis and intervention are important.

Vets may detect congestive heart failure through clinical signs, a physical examination, and diagnostic tools such as X-rays, electrocardiograms (ECGs), echocardiography, and blood pressure measurements.

How Fortekor Plus Works

Fortekor Plus combines two medicines that work together to improve heart function and reduce the symptoms of CHF.

Benazepril Hydrochloride (ACE Inhibitor)
Benazepril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It works by blocking the action of an enzyme involved in the narrowing of blood vessels. By inhibiting this enzyme, benazepril allows blood vessels to remain open and relaxed. This lowers blood pressure and reduces the workload on the heart. ACE inhibitors also reduce the amount of fluid retention in the body by inhibiting the production of aldosterone, a hormone that causes the kidneys to retain sodium and water. This helps decrease the build-up of fluid in the lungs and abdomen that is typical in dogs with congestive heart failure.

Pimobendan (Inodilator)
Pimobendan is classified as an inodilator. It supports the heart in two main ways: it strengthens the heart’s contractions and causes blood vessels to dilate. This dual action improves the heart’s ability to pump blood and reduces resistance in the blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to function.

Unlike traditional heart stimulants, pimobendan increases cardiac output without significantly increasing the heart's oxygen demand. This is especially important in dogs with weakened or failing hearts.

Together, benazepril and pimobendan provide a synergistic effect. They reduce strain on the heart while improving the delivery of blood and oxygen to the body’s tissues. This leads to improved breathing, reduced fatigue, and a better overall quality of life for dogs with CHF.

Administration and Dosage

Fortekor Plus Tablets are given by mouth, usually once daily, at the dose prescribed by a veterinarian. The tablet should be administered approximately one hour before feeding. Tablets can be split to ensure accurate dosing based on body weight.

Veterinary supervision is essential during treatment. Periodic monitoring may include checks on kidney function, electrolyte levels, blood pressure, and overall cardiac health. Dosage adjustments may be required based on clinical response and any side effects.

Fortekor Plus is not intended for use in dogs with certain conditions, such as severe liver dysfunction or low blood pressure. It should not be used in dogs with known hypersensitivity to either active substance.

Potential Side Effects

As with any medication, side effects are possible. The most commonly reported side effects of Fortekor Plus include:

• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Lethargy
• Incoordination or wobbliness
• Increased thirst or urination

These effects may be temporary, but veterinary advice should be sought if they persist or worsen. Rare but serious adverse effects include kidney dysfunction, collapse, or arrhythmias. Blood tests may be required during treatment to monitor for any complications.