Centrine & Liver Disease -- HELP!

[Shihtzutimes2]

I have a puppy with liver damage, the cause of which has yet to be diagnosed; it could be liver disease. He had diarreah so I took him to the vet this evening. The vet gave him a shot of Centrine and gave me a bottle of tablets to start tomorrow. I got home, and looked it up on the internet as I like to inform myself, and a contraindication is not to give it to a dog with liver disease. Does anyone know why this is not good for them? Is my puppy doomed? What should I do?

[DarlingGirl]

No, don't panic.
See here:
http://www.petplace.com/drug-library...ine/page1.aspx
If your vet prescribed the right amount, it shouldn't bother your puppy.
Just to be sure, call your vet!
Stay on the line until you've discussed the fact that your puppy has a bad liver, and did he/she prescribe the right amount/medication? Just ask them to check it again, keeping in mind your puppy's problem.
They should be pleasant, enthused that you're concerned, and give you a good explanation for why they selected that medication over others.

Never be afraid to question your vet when you're unsure about something.

[Dr Lee]

Shihtzutimes2,

It is very important to find out what type of liver disease is present. In young puppies, it can range from 'normal' liver enzyme release which is actually being released from growing bones and not liver disease, to mild inflammation which can recover, to liver shunts which require surgery, to even more serious problems. If you would like I will be happy to review the blood results for you.

Centrine - is an antispasmotic as Darlinggirl's post link points out. Why did your vet prescribe it in the face of liver disease? Well, as most medications are processed in the liver, a large, large number of drugs will caution with liver disease. Depending upon the level of drug, the blood values and health status of the pet; it is likely that the medication is safe. FWIW - many vets do not like this medication. It is somewhat controversial. In my experience, it works well and I have not seen any side effects personally; although I do not use this medication anymore.

I also agree with DarlingGirls' advice to call and talk to your vet. As long as the tone is positive and an 'inquiry' versus an accusation; most vets should be happy to help and explain. Likely it is the medication and dosage that she or he wants, but never hurts to ask.

Good luck.