Phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride

Phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride is a pharmaceutical drug used primarily in veterinary medicine for the treatment of urinary incontinence in dogs. It is a non-selective adrenergic receptor agonist and norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI).

Pharmacology

Phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride acts by tightening the urethral sphincter muscle in dogs, which helps to control urine leakage. It is a sympathomimetic drug, meaning it mimics the action of the sympathetic nervous system. It does this by stimulating the alpha-adrenergic receptors in the smooth muscle of the urethra and bladder neck, causing them to contract and tighten.

Uses

Phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride is primarily used in the treatment of urinary incontinence in dogs, particularly spayed female dogs, which are more prone to this condition. It is also used in the treatment of nasal congestion in humans, although its use for this purpose has been largely discontinued due to concerns about its safety.

Side Effects

Like all drugs, phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride can have side effects. These can include restlessness, increased heart rate, high blood pressure, and loss of appetite. In rare cases, it can cause a serious condition called phenylpropanolamine toxicity, which can be life-threatening.

Regulation

In the United States, phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride was once an over-the-counter drug, but it was withdrawn from the market by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2000 due to concerns about its safety. It is still available for veterinary use, but it is now a prescription-only drug.

See Also

• Adrenergic receptor
• Norepinephrine
• Urinary incontinence
• Veterinary medicine

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