Estriol (Incurin) for Canine Incontinence: Uses, Side Effects, and Considerations in 2025 🐕💧

Introduction: What is Estriol? 💡

Estriol (brand name Incurin) is a synthetic form of estrogen used to treat urinary incontinence in spayed female dogs. Incontinence in female dogs often results from a decrease in estrogen after spaying, which affects the bladder’s sphincter control. Estriol works by increasing the tone of the bladder sphincter, helping to prevent urine leakage and control incontinence. While effective, it is important to be aware of the correct use, dosage, potential side effects, and considerations associated with its use in 2025. 🐶💧

How Does Estriol Work in Canine Incontinence? 🧠

Estrogens, including estriol, are hormones that play a vital role in the female reproductive system, influencing the development of the uterus, ovaries, and other structures. After spaying, the production of estrogen decreases, which can lead to reduced sphincter control and urinary leakage. Estriol, when administered, mimics estrogen and helps improve sphincter tone in the bladder, effectively controlling incontinence. 🐕

Estriol is a short-acting hormone compared to other forms of estrogen, making it safer and reducing the risk of side effects like bone marrow suppression. This makes it an attractive option for managing incontinence in spayed female dogs. However, it should always be used under the supervision of a veterinarian to ensure proper administration and minimize risks. 🧬💊

How Is Estriol Administered? 💉

Estriol is available in 1 mg tablets, and its administration typically follows a titration protocol to find the minimum effective dose. The usual procedure for starting estriol treatment involves giving the dog one tablet daily for about two weeks. If the dog shows improvement, the dose is gradually reduced until the minimum effective dose is reached. This ensures that the dog is receiving the lowest effective dose while controlling the incontinence. 🐕💊

The dosage for estriol varies depending on the individual dog’s response, but it should never exceed 2 mg daily. If a dose is accidentally skipped, it should be given as soon as remembered without doubling up the next dose. It's important to monitor the dog’s condition during treatment to adjust the dose accordingly. For most dogs, estriol significantly reduces incontinence, with around 90% of dogs either completely continent or greatly improved with this medication. 💧🐶

Side Effects of Estriol 📉

While estriol is generally well-tolerated, it is essential to be aware of possible side effects. Some of the most common side effects of estriol include:

• Reduced appetite 🍽️ – Occurring in about 13% of dogs, appetite loss may be noticeable but can usually be managed by adjusting the dose.
• Vomiting 🤢 – Approximately 10% of dogs may experience vomiting. If this occurs, the dose may need to be reduced.
• Increased thirst 💧 – Increased water intake is a reported side effect, which can typically be controlled by adjusting the dosage.

Less commonly, some dogs may experience hormonal side effects, including:

• Swollen vulva 💕 – In about 4% of dogs, estriol may cause mild swelling of the vulva.
• Sexual behaviors 🐾 – About 3.5% of dogs may show increased sexual attractiveness or behavior.
• Breast enlargement 💖 – A small percentage of dogs may develop slight breast enlargement due to hormonal effects.

Fortunately, bone marrow suppression, which is a concern with other estrogens, has not been reported with estriol, making it a safer alternative for managing canine incontinence. 🐕💧

Drug Interactions with Estriol 💊

Like many medications, estriol can interact with other drugs. Here are some important interactions to be aware of:

• Thyroid hormone levels ⚡ – Estriol may alter thyroid hormone levels, so thyroid medications should be monitored closely.
• Other estrogens ⚠️ – Concurrent use of estriol with other estrogen-containing medications can increase the risk of hormone-related side effects, including bone marrow suppression.
• Phenobarbital and ketoconazole 💊 – Phenobarbital can decrease estriol's effectiveness, while ketoconazole can increase blood levels of estriol, potentially leading to higher side effects.
• Cimetidine and antibiotics 💊 – Antacids like cimetidine, and antibiotics like erythromycin or clarithromycin, can also interfere with estriol’s clearance from the body.
• Cyclosporine 💉 – When used with cyclosporine (an immunosuppressive drug), estriol may increase cyclosporine blood levels, requiring careful monitoring.

Consult your veterinarian if your dog is taking any of these medications, as dose adjustments or alternative therapies may be necessary. 💊⚠️

Concerns and Cautions ⚠️

Despite its effectiveness in managing incontinence, there are several concerns and precautions to consider when using estriol. Here are some key points:

• Maximum dosage 💡 – Two tablets (2 mg) daily is the maximum recommended dose. If this dosage does not control incontinence, alternative therapies or further diagnostics should be considered.
• Not for male dogs 🐾 – Estriol should not be used in male dogs, pregnant or lactating dogs, or dogs under one year of age.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women 💅 – Women handling estriol should wash their hands thoroughly afterward to avoid accidental exposure, as the medication can affect hormone levels.
• Liver disease caution ⚠️ – Use estriol with caution in dogs with liver disease, as liver function may affect the drug's metabolism.
• Storage 🏠 – Store estriol at room temperature, protected from light, and in its original blister pack to ensure stability.

Conclusion: Is Estriol the Right Choice for Your Dog? 🐾💧

Estriol (Incurin) provides an effective and generally safe treatment for canine incontinence, especially in spayed female dogs. While it is generally well-tolerated, it’s important to follow proper dosing guidelines and be aware of potential side effects, including appetite changes, vomiting, and hormonal effects. Regular monitoring and consultation with your veterinarian are essential to ensure the best outcome for your dog. 🐶💧

If you have concerns about your dog's incontinence or the use of estriol, consult with a veterinarian to determine the best course of action. Visit AskAVet.com or download the Ask A Vet app for personalized advice and real-time support! 📱💬