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All About Supplements for Cushing's

Updated: 2 days ago



Some pet owners use health supplements to help manage their dog’s Cushing’s disease. The information below answers commonly asked questions about supplements. Please consult your veterinarian before giving your pet any supplement.


TABLE OF CONTENTS (select any link to move to a certain question)








What are supplements?


Supplements for pets are usually referred to as “nutritional” supplements or “animal health” supplements. Nutritional supplements are products, such as vitamins and minerals, intended to provide nutritional value as a component of a complete and balanced diet. Health supplements are products that support the maintenance of normal biological structure and function in animals. Most of the supplements commonly used for Cushing's disease fall under the health supplement category.


Are supplements FDA-approved?


No, supplements intended for animals are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This is one way that they differ from drug products, such as Vetoryl, which are approved and must demonstrate safety and effectiveness before being marketed.


Are supplements safe?


As mentioned above, companies don’t have to provide any proof that their animal supplements are safe before marketing them in the United States. That’s why it’s important to be careful about the products you choose for your pet. One thing you might want to look for is the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) seal. NASC is a non-profit group that sets safety standards for animal supplements. Companies that meet these standards are allowed to place a NASC seal on their products. You can find a list of NASC members here.


It’s also important to always read the ingredient list on the product label and consult with your veterinarian. Some ingredients aren’t safe for dogs with certain medical conditions or on certain medications. For example, if your dog has Cushing's disease, avoid giving supplements containing licorice root; licorice can potentially elevate cortisol and worsen Cushing's symptoms.


Can any supplements effectively treat Cushing's disease?


Though some pet owners have had success with supplements, scientific evidence of effectiveness is lacking. There have been very few studies on the use of supplements to manage Cushing's disease in dogs.


Is it ever okay to treat Cushing’s with supplements instead of medication?


It depends. Every dog is unique, and treatment decisions should be based on what’s in their best interests. For some dogs, such as those with kidney or liver disease or with very early Cushing’s, medication might not be the best option. Keep in mind that Cushing’s disease is (slowly) progressive, so symptoms can eventually overcome any effects of supplements, even supplements that initially seemed to work. Dogs have a higher risk of complications from Cushing's disease, including blood clots, high blood pressure, and diabetes, when cortisol levels aren't well controlled.


What kinds of supplements can I give to my dog for Cushing's disease?


The following are examples of supplements that might be used to support a Cushing's dog.


To regulate cortisol levels:


(1) Melatonin


Melatonin is a hormone that's naturally made in the body. Some pet owners use melatonin supplements as an over-the-counter remedy for Cushing’s disease or atypical Cushing’s disease in their dogs. It's often given in combination with lignans (details below). Although serious side effects from melatonin or lignans are rare, please note that there have been no studies on the safety or efficacy of either of these supplements for dogs with Cushing's disease.


Note: when purchasing melatonin, make sure it's not rapid or extended release and does not contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. Also, talk to your veterinarian before giving melatonin to a diabetic dog, as some evidence suggests it can cause insulin resistance.


(2) Lignans


Lignans are naturally occurring compounds found in plants. Some pet owners combine lignans with melatonin and use them as a remedy for Cushing's disease or atypical Cushing's disease. There are two types of lignans: HMR and SDG. HMR lignans are extracted from spruce trees, whereas SDG lignans are typically derived from flaxseed hulls. Both are generally safe for dogs; however, SDG lignans can cause gastrointestinal side effects due to their high fiber content.


Where to buy melatonin and lignans




For dogs with hind leg weakness:


Fortetropin (MYOS Muscle Formula)


Fortetropin is a product developed by MYOS, a muscle health company. It’s made from fertilized chicken egg yolks. There’s evidence that Fortetropin helps to build muscles and reduce muscle loss, which makes it potentially beneficial for dogs that have hind leg weakness from Cushing’s disease.


Goat's Milk


Goat's milk contains high levels of amino acids, which are essential for muscle growth and repair. It's also easier for dogs to digest than cow's milk. If your dog is experiencing muscle atrophy or hind leg weakness, consider adding a goat's milk topper or supplement to his or her food.


For healthy skin and heart:


Fish Oil (EPA and DHA)


Fish oil, derived from the tissue of fish, is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. Among other things, studies suggest that fish oil can potentially fight inflammation, promote healthy skin, and lower blood pressure.


For liver health:


Milk Thistle (silybin/silymarin)


Milk thistle is a flowering plant that contains silymarin, a potent antioxidant. Studies show that milk thistle has the potential to support and protect the liver. Dogs with elevated ALT or other signs of liver damage or disease may benefit from this supplement.


Note: although milk thistle is known to lower ALT levels, its influence on ALP is more complicated. Unlike ALT, ALP is not liver specific, meaning its levels can be affected by medical conditions unrelated to the liver. In Cushing’s dogs, ALP is often elevated due to increased cortisol and not necessarily because of a liver issue.


References (external)


Lignans Information, by the University of Tennessee CVM




 
 
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