Incurin® (estriol)

PetMD’s medications content was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer your most common questions about how medications function, their side effects, and what species they are prescribed for. This content shouldn’t take the place of advice by your vet.

What is Incurin®?

Incurin^® is a short-acting estrogen that treats estrogen-responsive urinary incontinence (urine leaking) in spayed female dogs. All factors that may contribute to urinary incontinence should be considered before this medication is prescribed.

How Incurin® Works

Estrogen is a hormone produced by the ovaries in females. Incurin^® treats urinary incontinence specifically caused by low levels of estrogen in spayed female dogs. It increases the muscle tone of the urethral sphincter which allows it to contract and strengthen, preventing urine from leaking. Estriol is a naturally occurring short-acting estrogen. Since estriol is a short-acting hormone, it has a reduced risk for serious side effects.

Incurin® Directions

Please follow the directions on the drug label and as provided by your veterinarian. Incurin^® is dosed according to your pet’s individual response to the medication, which means your pet will need to be closely monitored by your veterinarian before any required dosing adjustments can be made.

During follow-up visits with your veterinarian, an evaluation of whether your pet’s urinary incontinence is well controlled will determine if the dose can be lowered to a maintenance dose. It is generally recommended to wait 7 days between dosing adjustments.

Incurin^® can be given with or without food, but always follow the instructions from your vet. It is important to note that this medication is not dosed by weight.

Missed a Dose?

If you forget to give a dose of Incurin^®, give it when you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosing schedule. Do not give extra or double doses.

Incurin® Possible Side Effects

• Anorexia/loss of appetite

• Vomiting

• Increased thirst

• Swollen vulva

• Anxiety

• Inflammation of the vagina (vaginitis)

• Lack of energy (lethargy)

• Aggression/hyperactivity

Estrogens have been linked with bone marrow suppression, which is a dangerous condition where your body produces less blood cells. However, this has not been reported with estriol at recommended dosing levels.

Human Side Effects

Incurin® can affect the human body. It is recommended to wear gloves when handling or wash hands with soap and water after administration to avoid exposure to the drug. Pregnant, those of child-bearing age or those who are breastfeeding should use caution when administering this medication. This medication is not approved for use in humans. If you accidentally ingest a pet medication, call your physician or the national Poison Control Center hotline at 800-222-1222.

Monitoring

All estrogen medications can potentially affect the bone marrow and may alter thyroid hormone levels, so your veterinarian may recommend routine blood testing before starting this medication, as well as periodically throughout treatment. Your veterinarian may also recommend additional routine testing depending on your pet’s individual needs and other medications they may be on.

Call your vet if severe side effects are seen (see above) or you see or suspect an overdose. Call your vet or pharmacist if you have additional questions or concerns about the use of Incurin®.

Incurin® Overdose Information

Acute overdoses are most likely to cause varying levels of vomiting and diarrhea depending on the severity of the overdose. Redness, swelling of the vulva, vulvar discharge, and enlargement of the mammary glands is also possible. Changes in white blood cell counts are also possible.

If you suspect an overdose, immediately contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center. Consultation fees often apply.

Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661

ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435

Incurin® Storage

Incurin® should be stored at controlled room temperature at or below 77°F. Brief exposure to temperatures up to 104°F are acceptable. Keep tablets in their blister packs until use to protect from moisture and light. Always confirm storage requirements by reviewing the label.

Keep out of reach of children and pets.