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Best Pet Thyroid & Hormone Medications

Updated March 2024
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Prednisone Generic Tablets
Prednisone
Generic Tablets
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Trusted Medication
Bottom Line

A popular medication that's prescribed for cats and dogs for many reasons, including hormonal problems resulting from Addison's Disease.

Pros

Commonly prescribed for Addison's Disease, a condition that affects hormonal production of the adrenal system. Can be taken by dogs or cats. Reduces inflammation, and is well-tolerated by most pets.

Cons

Some pets may experience upset digestive system and tiredness. An increase in thirst and hunger, and frequent urination, are common side effects.

Best Bang for the Buck
Levothyroxine Sodium Tablets (Thyro-Tabs)
Levothyroxine Sodium
Tablets (Thyro-Tabs)
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For Dogs & Cats
Bottom Line

A reliable medication that treats hypothyroidism, which is one of the most common hormonal imbalances in dogs and cats.

Pros

Veterinarians often prescribe this medication for dogs and cats that are experiencing under-active thyroid that can cause low energy, weight gain, hair loss, and more. Replaces hormones that aren't being produced as a result of the disease.

Cons

Other conditions and medications should be discussed with your veterinarian to avoid adverse reactions; otherwise side effects are minimal.

Methimazole Generic Tablets for Cats
Methimazole
Generic Tablets for Cats
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For Felines
Bottom Line

If your cat has an overactive thyroid, there is a good chance your veterinarian will prescribe this reliable medication that eases symptoms and improves overall health.

Pros

Treats hyperthyroidism in cats, which causes an abundance of the hormone thyroxine (T4), which can lead to weight loss, vomiting, fast heart beat, and other symptoms. Noticeable results occur in a few weeks in most cats that take it. Tolerated well by most cats.

Cons

Lethargy, upset stomach, and decreased appetite are likely during the first 12 weeks of treatment, but tend to fade with time. Other side effects occur less frequently but are possible, such as jaundice.

Vetoryl Capsules for Dogs
Vetoryl
Capsules for Dogs
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Controls Canine Cortisol
Bottom Line

Despite possible side effects, this drug is worth the risks for dogs that are suffering from Cushing's Disease, which could progress to debilitating symptoms and death if left untreated.

Pros

Controls Cushing's Disease in dogs, a disease that causes the pituitary gland to make an abundance of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which increases cortisol. Disease leads to weight gain, major thirst and hunger, and even death if left untreated, Drug is effective at controlling progression in most dogs.

Cons

Digestive symptoms and lethargy are common side effects. Major diarrhea, depression, or unresponsiveness could be signs of a severe reaction that require prompt veterinarian intervention.

Incurin (Estriol) Tablets for Dogs
Incurin (Estriol)
Tablets for Dogs
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For Incontinence
Bottom Line

This medication helps female dogs with post-spay incontinence, and is well-tolerated by most that take it.

Pros

Used to treat urinary incontinence in female dogs that results from them being spayed. Works by targeting estrogen changes that can lead to incontinence following spay surgery. Works well for most dogs with few side effects.

Cons

Can cause stomach upset. Not for male dogs, or females dogs that are not spayed or are pregnant.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
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Just like their human owners, dogs and cats can develop thyroid and hormonal problems. Conditions like Cushing's and Addison's diseases, hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism result in symptoms like weight gain or loss, changes in appetite and behavior, and an overall decline in health. Some hormonal issues affect the reproductive system, and can cause problems such as incontenence. The good news is that there are medications that can reduce or replace hormones and greatly improve symptoms. If your dog or cat is presenting with symptoms that could indicate and thyroid and hormone imbalance, schedule a visit with your veterinarian. Once diagnosed, your vet will prescribe a type of hormonal medication that you most likely will be able to conveniently purchase online, which may also save you some money.

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