Started Prednisone today - concerned by heavy breathing

[Gingerlove]

Hi everyone,

So, Ginger has started prednisone today. She's on 50 mg (25 mg twice a day) daily for 5 days then 25 mg a day until reevaluation. I've been reading posts about prednisone and I'm quite concerned with the dosage which seems very high and the side effects.

She just started heavy breathing and panting tonight. I did some research on the web and so far, I haven't read anything about heavy breathing listed as a possible side effect from prednisone except here.

Also, we just called at the hospital and they told us that this kind of breathing is not caused by her new prednisone medication... I just don't know what to think?? They told us to keep an eye on her (obviously) and bring her in if it gets worse.

Any thoughts on the situation would be much appreciated.
Thank you

 

[Gatorblu]

I just found three sites that mentioned heavy breathing as a side effect of prednisone. Is the vet hospital where they prescribed the prednisone? If not try calling the vet that did.

 

[Gingerlove]

Hi,

Yes, it is the same vet hospital and, pursuing my research online, I also found one website that list heavy panting as side effect... I'm keeping a close watch on my baby but it makes me wonder how come they don't know about this side effect of prednisone at the hospital?

Thanks for the reply,
It is helping reading others comments and experience.

 

[mancin]

Both of my boxers had panting/heavy breathing as a side effect of pred!

 

[Gingerlove]

Could I ask if you gave the prednisone long term? Did the breathing got under control with time or what did you do to deal with this side effect?
Seems like my girl is in for the long haul with pred...
Thanks

 

[mancin]

Tyson was on pred for several months due to some GI issues and the panting was the worst the first couple of weeks when he was on a higher dose. Once we began tapering, the panting stopped.

Make sure she has plenty of water. It does make them quite thirsty too!

 

[trc4941]

Both of our dogs have been on prednisone. Both had lots of panting, hungry all the time, drinking and because of the drinking LOTS of peeing. It's hard for everyone involved when they're taking prednisone. Good luck!

 

[Gus's Folks]

My dog is on pred as well. He's 60lbs and gets 40mg once a day (for lymphoma). In my research I also found several sites that said panting is a side effect. My vet also mentioned it. Pred impacts their ability to regulate their temperature. The panting stopped when we took his dose down temporarily so you may find the same when you get onto the lower dose. I would also suggest you cool down the house if you can, or at least her sleeping area. Maybe a fan? Also, not too much activity or exposure in the heat of the summer. Better that you are in Montreal than Louisiana on that score!