Pimobendan

Pimobendan is a medication sold chiefly as a veterinary product, with Vetmedin among its brand names. Pharmacologically it is a calcium sensitizer and a selective inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 3, and these actions give it positive inotropic effects, meaning it strengthens the heartbeat, together with vasodilator effects that widen blood vessels. Its main use is in the management of heart failure in dogs, most often when the failure is caused by myxomatous mitral valve disease, formerly called endocardiosis, or by dilated cardiomyopathy. Research cited in the source indicates that, given alone, pimobendan lengthens survival and improves quality of life in dogs with congestive heart failure secondary to mitral valve disease, compared with the ACE inhibitor benazepril. Under the brand name Acardi it is available for human use in Japan, and it is sold as a generic medication. This entry records what is held about the drug and is not medical or veterinary advice.