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All About Supplements for Cushing's

Updated: Sep 21


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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 (such as diabetes) or dogs on certain medications (such as blood pressure medication).


If your pet experiences an adverse event involving a supplement, you can submit a report to FDA using the FDA safety reporting portal. If you're outside the United States, please contact the agency that regulates veterinary medicine in your country.


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 a holistic 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 holistic 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


Both lignans and melatonin for dogs are available on the Lignans for Life website.

Prana Pets sell a Lignans and Melatonin Blend, as well.


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.


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 belongs to the daisy family. Studies show that it has the potential to protect and support the liver, meaning it can benefit dogs that have elevated ALT or other liver issues. It generally has little to no effect on elevated ALP caused by Cushing's, however. Most milk thistle supplements consist of either milk thistle seed or extracts of milk thistle, known as silybin and silymarin.


References (external)


Lignans Information, by the University of Tennessee CVM




 
 
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