Compounding

Compounding is the process of changing an original drug dosage so that it is easier to administer or to make a suitable form for a particular animal to receive.

I recommend: Veterinarians occasionally use compounded medications for an animal's specific need. The American Veterinary Medical Association explains the various types of requirements needed for compounding drugs for veterinary use.

Transdermal gels

Transdermal gels contain the medication prescribed by the veterinarian and are applied to the animal's skin.

I recommend: There are many different ways that transdermal gels can be used and made, and Wedgewood Pharmacy has a complete list of the types of medications that can be used in gel form. 

Therapeutic drug monitoring

Therapeutic drug monitoring is a process that can guide the veterinarian to provide safe and effective drug therapy in animals by monitoring the animal's clinical response to a drug. Drug monitoring has also proved to be very useful in assessing and identifying owner non-compliance, which can cause adverse reactions or even therapeutic failure of the prescribed medical regimen.

I recommend: Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine has extensive information regarding drug-monitoring procedures.

Route of administration

At times, it may be very difficult to give an animal a medication in oral form. These medications can be changed to another method, such as transdermal or rectal suppositories.

I recommend: Murray Avenue Apothecary has information on various ways of administering medications. 

Nutraceuticals

Nutraceuticals provide health and medical benefits and may be comprised of herbal products, dietary supplements and other nutrients. They can be used in animals to prevent disorders and diseases.

I recommend: To learn more about nutraceutical uses for veterinary practice, the American Animal Hospital Association is a great resource on each of the various types of nutraceuticals and their uses.

Adverse events

Adverse events are those events that have an undesirable effect occurring after the use of any vaccines, medications or medical devices. These events might be or might not be caused by the medicine, device or product.

I recommend: The FDA has extensive information on adverse events and how and where to report them if they occur.