The Kat House

After much thought and many conversations with Cruella’s doctors, I have decided to try the Lysodren, a chemotherapy drug. There are major risks involved, but if I do nothing, I already know what the outcome will be – and it’s not a good one. Cruella’s doctors are very optimistic about her treatment, and the members of the CanineCushings-AutoimmuneCare group have shared lots of Lysodren success stories.

Cruella will begin the induction phase on Monday, taking 2.5 tablets (500 mg each) per day – split evenly into two doses twelve hours apart. The treatment will rapidly erode the overactive adrenal gland, causing it to produce less cortisol. After three full days of Lysodren therapy, Cruella will undergo an ACTH stimulation test to determine whether the adrenal gland has been reduced to a desirable size. If it hasn’t, she will undergo the test again on the 8th or 9th day of treatment. Induction typically lasts from 1-2 weeks in most dogs, but can last longer. Once induction has been met, she will move into the maintenance phase, taking the Lysodren only a couple of times per week.

Over the next couple of days, I will be closely monitoring Cruella’s intake of food and water. Once she begins treatment, a decrease in one or both may mean that the induction phase is drawing to an end. Other signs I have to watch for are diarrhea, vomiting, and lethargy. These symptoms typically indicate that the cortisol levels have dropped too low, so another stim test is required to confirm. Low cortisol levels are much more dangerous than high levels and can lead to death if not addressed in a timely fashion. Due to the severity of the condition, I have to keep an antidote (Prednisone) on hand at all times. The Prednisone can usually reverse a Lysodren reaction within 30 minutes.

The induction period is the most dangerous; however, Cruella must be closely monitored even after she enters maintenance, which will continue for the remainder of her life. According to the doctors, I can expect to see a full reversal of the clinical signs associated with Cushing’s Disease within 4-6 months of treatment.

I am scared to death to give Cruella this medication, but the doctors say that she has an excellent prognosis with it. She could be looking and feeling like a brand new dog in a very short period of time! Unfortunately, my wallet will be suffering for the next few weeks, as the treatment and associated blood tests are extremely expensive. So, if you happen to see me on a street corner selling men’s jewelry out of my trench coat, you’ll know why.