NPH Insulin replaces Vetsulin. The FDA and Intervet/Schering Plough announced the Vetsulin recall alert last week and I have received several inquiries from diabetic pet owners asking what type of insulin to buy at the pharmacy to replace the Vetsulin for their diabetic pets. Vetsulin, the “special” insulin, labeled for pets, available from veterinarians, is actually Porcine Zinc Insulin, which is referred to as PZI. PZI is insulin derived from pigs, and in the past was used for people that are diabetics. Human diabetics use various types of insulin, for example NPH insulin, available at most pharmacies for less than $20.00 dollars a bottle is a commonly prescribed and used for people. PZI is no longer commercially available because today, modern technology develops human insulin from DNA, rather than pigs. Since the PZI or pig based insulin is considered to be inferior to DNA based insulin, people don’t use it and Intervet/Schering Plough apparently grabbed the rights and labeled it for dogs and cats.
Here are the facts about Vetsulin for Pets with Diabetes:
- It is about $10.00 more expensive per bottle than NPH insulin.
- Various batches of vetsulin are not stable.
- Vetsulin is not stable and has been recalled.
- Vetsulin is derived from pigs.
- Many pharmacies, including Walmart and Walgreens no longer carry PZI.
- PZI (Vetsulin) is considered to be inferior in quality to DNA based insulin.
Here are the Problems Diabetic Pet Owners using Vetsulin are Currently Experiencing:
- Many pet owners are being forced to have expensive blood glucose (blood sugar) curves run before their vets will consider writing them a prescription to buy NPH insulin at the drug store.
- Pet owners have been brainwashed into believing that Vetsulin is superior to other types of commercially available insulin, as they have been told that it was developed “specifically for pets.
- Certain veterinarians are apparently not willing or able to refund pet owners for the Vetsulin they purchased.
- Pet owners do not know which type of insulin to buy at the pharmacy to replace the Vetsulin, and are not sure about new dosages.
Dr. Carol’s Tips for Diabetic Pet Owners using or stuck with Vetsulin:
- Stop using Vetsulin.
- Return the Vetsulin to your vet or to Intervet/Schering-Plough for a “complete” refund.
- Get a prescription from your vet for NPH insulin.
- Verify the correct dosage of NPH insulin with your vet.
- Be sure you always use u-40 Insulin with u-40 insulin syringes.
- Be sure to always use u-100 Insulin with u-100 insulin syringes.
Dr. Carol Osborne,
This whole Vetsulin issue is a travesty, and Veterinarians, such as mine, that will not refund the product bought, especially after November 2, 2009, are showing their true colors. They recommend, prescribe and sell this product, and as with my Veterinarian, will not write a prescription for it so you could have purchased it from another source, saving a substantial amount of money, when bought in quantity, should now reap the downside of the profit they have been making off this product. They should be offering to buy all vials sold, if not for anything else, the safety of the pet, further offering to do a curve at no cost to the pet owner. They then should go after the manufacturer to refund them for all the curves they have done. This is not the pet owners fault what so ever.
I would like to thank Dr. Osborne for spending her time with me discussing my dogs diabetes and Vetsulin concerns. She was very helpful in explaining this entire issue to me and gave me accurate advise and suggestions with out charging me anything at all for her time. She expresses compassion and understanding which is very hard to find these days.
My cat just died after I injected her with this CRAP for 6 months.
SHAME on Schering Plough AND the FDA!!
Schering Plough should be SUED!
Karen, you need to contact them and file a complaint. Keep your Vetsulin you used and notify your vet.
After injecting my cat with Schering Plough’s PZI for 7 months, she came down with Cushings Disease.
Michael:
TOO LATE.
I threw the Vetsulin away BEFORE I found out it was CRAP!
But I’ve got the records …
There it is in big letters … VETSULIN.
And do you want to hear something UNBELIEVABLE.
My vet is STILL USING IT.
She told me she wasn’t using “bad batches”.
OMG!!!
Totally clueless!!
I’ve already contacted animal law center in Colorado.
More people need to step forward.
Unfortunately, most people are so clueless, they’ll got sucked in like I was … let the vet “blame” the animal.
Mike:
the news is spreading like wildfire.
Google “Vetsulin” and click “news”.
I am just SICK!!
My vet NEVER called me to get my cat OFF VETSULIN!
Karen Just read that they have stopped selling PZI insulin so there must be an issue there. So sorry for your loss.
I certainly am until just now, and I am MAD….Called Vet and tried to get them to recommend a brand of human insulin I could use for my 10yo diabetic Beagle, and was told there is not a comprisable brand in Human Insulin. When I read this article about Vetsulin that the are still wanting me to buy I am totally lost. Would they knowing keep selling me a recalled product, SO VERY MAD.
I found out about the recall (maybe only)because I needed a refill for my 14 yr. old tabby. He was diagnosed in April & soon after receiving the injections developed kidney problems so now is on that expensive k/d food only. He has now had 2 “people insulin” injections & I swear he seems to feel better already!!
I called my vet’s office today. (they’re opened on Sundays)
They’re STILL giving out the VETSULIN!
Unbelievable!!
Murderers!!
My vet prescribed Humulin N for my cat. It cost $51 plus I had to buy new syringes (what am I suppose to do with all the old ones!). Y’all are talking about NPH @ around $20.?? I too am having to start all over with the evaluations. I love my cat dearly so of course I will shell out the bucks…Again. But I am really not happy. Why did my vet prescribe insulin that costs the same as Vetsulin?
What is so painful about this whole DEATH process is the lack of support, and not knowing what REALLY killed my cat.
Was it the Vetsulin?
Did my cat have Cushings Disease, which is frequently mistaken for diabetes?
I’ll never know the truth.
I’ll have to live with this the rest of my life.
Very sad indeed!
Oh my god loved reading your post. I submitted your feed to my blogreader.
Karen – My cat went hypoglycemic suddenly from vetsulin this weekend and is dying in the hospital right now. I witnessed them blindly sell a vial of vetsulin to a customer tonight as I was making the hard decision to put my cat to sleep as he is permanently brain damaged. I wanted to scream but I know I need to talk to a lawyer first. I think we should start a class-action lawsuit. Can I contact you?
yes you can call me and I agree with you on this
Dr Carol
Mtherese:
I called the animal law center in Colorado.
They were NO help.
I don’t know what to do.
If you want to see something sickening, go to the websites: Catster dot com and dog channel dot com.
It is so HEARTBREAKING to read the posts of pet owners who gave their pets this poisonous crap, and they don’t even know they killed their own pets!!
Schering-Plough should be sued.
And to think VETS ARE STILL DISPENSING this!!!
STILL!! .. Without regard to the welfare of the animals.
I guess, they think we’re all stupid!!
Somehow, petowners who fell victim to the GREED of Schering-Plough will get in touch with eachother.
How dare they think we would just watch our beloved pets SUFFER and die, and they would get away with this!
I will never forget.
Never!!
Thanks for all the information on Vetsulin. At my instance and with great reluctance my vet gave me a “credit” for the 2 vials I just purchased a week ago. He was still prescribing it and I insisted my do be switched which he did put her on Humulin N. The only problem is that I am starting all over with finding her correct dose. Over the last month I thought something was going on with the Vetsulin because I went from 6 units to 6.5units and then my vet said 7 units since I started seeing her drnking and urinating profusely as she did when we first found out about her having diabetes and we had not changed her det or exercise! Now my vet is “guessing” at 3 units of Humulin N and try this for 3 days then got to 4 units and then bring her in next week and we will do a curve. That “credit” will be taken care of with this visit so I really didn’t get anything back! Everybody is in it for the money and I guess it is just a dog as far as Schering and the FDA are concerned!
Dear Thomas
I hate to think that’s true but their actions and behavior with respect to this Vetsulin issue and all the dogs and cats with diabetes currently suffering
make one wonder exactly what their priorities are! Unfortunately this situation continues without resolution. More pets are dying and many other pet owners are being forced to bend over backwards and to try to get proper stable insulin for their diabetic pets.
Dr Carol
Thomas:
That’s what happened to my cat on Vetsulin … drinking and urinating profusely. I was spending $18 a week on kitty litter. My cat would lay down by the water dish for hours .. drinking.
Vetsulin killed my cat. I wish I’d never given my cat this POISON.
I HATE Schering-Plough!
They should be sued!
Dear Karen
I am very sorry for your loss and express my sincere sympathy to you.
Please feel free to call if I can help in any way.
God Bless
Dr Carol
Karen,
There is a website called “TopClassActions.com”, http://www.topclassactions.com/complaint-form, where you could get the ball rolling.
Our pets are our children. This is important information also. Humans who are newly diagnosed with diabetes have strict monitoring guidelines to adjust their insulins to stabilze them with the appropriate amount and to prescribe the RIGHT insulin to avoid hypoglycemic level and the high levels. The same is with our pets. There are follow up tests you need to insist be done. A1c monitors glucose levels for 3 months. Also request periodic tests for their liver and kidney function. Diabetes in pets require the same treatment as us humans and they have same long term affects as humans. And I will insist that these labs be done. I have friends who have used Vetsulin for 4 years without problems.And those who had chronic problems with the ” Human” insulins. But I am continuing research on this and will make a decision for my pet.
I would like to be part of the class-action lawsuit if anyone wants to contact me please do so.
I started having problems with the Vetsulin over a year ago and tried to convince my vet that the insulin was the problem and not my dog. Right before Thanksgiving he4r sugar went out of control and she spent several days in hospital. I had taken a printout I got off of internet about Vetsulin being unsafe. Even after that they said it was not insulin. She got sick again last week with Pancreatitis. Her sugar is doing good now and she feels better. Would love a class action suit.
Dr, Carol, After reading other peoples stories about Vetsulin, it makes you wonder if anyone really does care about our 4 legged family members. My 5 yr old miniature schnauzer is as part of my family as my children and evidently cannot get the same care & treatment as they can. I switched from Vetulin 3 weeks ago after reading about the recall and have been struggling to adjust her dosage using Humulin N starting at 3 units and now up to 6 to control her drinking & urination. Mentally I am struggling with the idea if I don’t get the dosage right this will lead to something horrible. It is a shame that there is no way that we can monitor her levels using the glucose monitoring kits they have for humans. Animal rights…..bah humbug!
Don’t let the vets tell you that human monitoring devices won’t work on your dog. That’s a load of crap.
We researched and discovered the human meters are close enough to give you an idea what your dogs sugar levels are. Taking blood from the ear is pretty easy and doesn’t seem to bother our Bischon at all. We have a problem because our dog stopped responding to human insulin and Vetsulin was the only thing that worked. Now what do we do?
Hi Kevin,
Your vet should be able to regulate your dog with new DNA based insulin, there are several types avaiable, and if I can help just let me know
Best Wishes
Dr Carol
I was given an Rx of Vetsulin for my Black Lab in October. On 12/22/09, my dog went blind in a 2 hour frame of time that I was out of the house. The next morning we rushed her to our vet who gave her an additional 10cc of Vetsulin on top of her morning dosage. Her reading was so high that it could not register. She was rushed to a specialist in Walnut Creek, CA to find out that there are problems with the Vetsulin and it appeared that it would be taken off the market shortly. Lily is has been placed on NPH insulin but we still cannot regulate her glucose levels and are using the human glucose reader for a general guideline. She weighs 83 lbs and I gave her 16cc of NPH but the glucose is still to high to get a reading.
My regular vet had no idea about the “recall” about the Vetsulin and has been calling everyday and even said that the night that we took her to see him, he couldn’t sleep just thinking about Lily and feeling just awful about not knowing.
Yes, I would like to see a class-action lawsuit. I don’t want money, but I want them to suffer in some way. Lily is a wonderful dog and she didn’t deserve this to happen to her. I have not found anything as being started already in the class-action, but I will gladly put my name on the list.
Prayers for Lily please and my prayers to everyone else who is suffering because of corporate greed.
Dear Sylvia
My prayers are with you and Lilly. I feel very badly for you.
If I can help, I am available by e-mail at at drcarol@chagrinfallspetclinic.com, or call our office toll free at 1-866-372-2765.
God Bless
Dr Carol
A class action was filed in Toledo, Ohio. Here’s the web address of the article in the Toledo Blade.
http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20091226/NEWS16/912260378/-1/ARCHIVES30
Dear Lauren
Many diabetic pet owners appreciate you bringing this Vetsulin Class Action Law Suit to our attention!
Thank you
Dr Carol
How do I sign up.
I hope Schering-Plough goes BANKRUPT!!
Here’s what a CRAPPY vet I had.
I just called the vet’s office to confirm that the vet received the letter I’d sent about my cat’s death due to poisonous Vetsulin 11/17/09.
Today was the THIRD time in the six weeks (my cat died the week before Thanksgiving), their receptionist has hung up on me. “We’re very busy” … CLICK.
TWENTY years with these people and this is the treatment I get.
And I have NO recourse.
OMG!! I was just horrified when I read Sylvia’s comments about her black Lab. Our dog, Diamond, is a “Lab mix” and she, too, is now blind. We noticed that she started bumping into things within 2 days of receiving her first Vetsulin injection. I kid you not! My heart is just pounding right now. It was devastating to us and I cried for over a week. Our vet said that Diamond had to already have cataracts. We were never okay with that response because other than the diabetic symptoms (urination, thirst, weight loss but hungry all the time, not able to hold her bladder), she could see just fine prior to receiving her Vetsulin injection. I didn’t bring it up before because we were talked into believing that she must have already had cataracts when we kept asking if the Vetsulin could cause vision problems. Diamond never had ANY problems with her eyesight before she was given Vetsulin. I’m just sick over this to the point that I can’t even write about this any longer tonight.
Dear Karen
I am so sorry about all this and if I can help in any way please let me know.
There is a class action law suit filed for Vetsulin that may be helpful for you.
I am available toll free at 1-866-372-2765
Dr Carol
To Karen Smith:
I’m so sorry to hear about your dog.
It’s an awful feeling isn’t?
You basically did to your dog what I did to my cat … we injected our beloved pets with PIG serum, and killed our own pets! And we PAID to do this!
Sickening, isn’t it?
To those of you with diabetic dogs and cats who wish to participate in the class action law suit on Vetsulin, contact attorney Rick Kerger at 1-419-255-5990. He is handling the law suit filed by my husband.
The article was posted in the Toledo Blade Newspaper on December 26, 2009.
Read details on theVetsulin Law Suit Class Action Details .
Dear Diane
Many diabetic pet owners will be appreciative for this information
Thank you
Dr Carol
I just spoke to the law firm.
I would strongly suggest that anyone else whose pet became debilitated from this pig poison, contact the attorney in this case.
Just do it for your pet’s sake!
Can someone please tell me who to contact to become part of this lawsuit on behalf of my 6 1/2 year old beautiful yellow lab Bailey as she went BLIND last week within 2 days. She has been on Vetsulin since 11/16 and after going from 17 units twice a day to on 12/21 23 units twice a day she is not completely BLIND.Someone please help me!
Dear Carol,
I am very sorry to hear about Bailey. If I can help further please feel free to contact me directly toll fee at 866-372-2765.
Here are details for diabetic dogs and cats who wish to participate in the class action law suit on Vetsulin,
contact attorney Rick Kerger at 1-419-255-5990.
The article was posted in the Toledo Blade Newspaper on December 26, 2009.
Read details on the Vetsulin Law Suit Class Action Details .
Best Wishes
Dr Carol
Correction: SHE IS COMPLETELY BLIND!
Dear Carol
If Bailey is still alive, she should be on DNA based insulin and if you need help with this just let me know
Humulin and NPH insulin are available at nearly any pharmacy and the Diastix or another brand of urine sugar/glucose test tape strips are available at
Walgreens, Amazon and other pharmacies, both on and off line so diabetic pet owners can monitor and adjust the new insulin dosage at home.
If this is something you need help with just let us know
Dr Carol
This law firm is FANTASTIC.
They KNOW what Schering-Plough has done!
1-(419)-255-5990
To Carol Williams:
It just SICKENS me to know Schering Plough’s PIG poison did this to your dog!
Dear Karen
I understand and even as a vet my feelings are similar
Dr Carol
I just got off the phone with Attorney Rick Kerger’s office. They are wonderful and very copassionate. I thank everyone on this blog and my heart breats for all of our poor innocent pets! Let’s all stick together in this cause—-
Thank you
Hello Dr. Carol-
I have a 12-year-old cat who was diagnosed about 16 months ago. She has been on Vetsulin ever since…with increasing dosages. About 4 weeks ago, I just happened to stop home early and found her dazed, walking in circles, and somewhat non-responsive…she’s the kind of cat that comes when I call her. At that time, she was getting 4 units twice a day. I took her to the emergency animal hospital and she was diagnosed as hypoglycemic (I believe her level was near 50 when they tested her). The vet did not mention anything about the Vetsulin being recalled and sent her home the next day with a reduced dosage (2 units twice a day). I took her back to have her levels tested again and they said she was high (350). The vet increased the dosage to 2.5 twice a day and casually mentioned that the Vetsulin had been recalled. When I asked, he said it was fine and to continue using it…he said that they stocked up and would refill the prescription. When I went to pick it up, he decided to change her to Lantus. At Walgreen’s, the pharmacist was concerned because Lantus is only good for 28 days after it’s opened…which is nowhere near the amount of time it would take for me to go through a vial. Additionally, the Lantus is $120 per vial. He suggested Humulin. I called my vet to discuss this and he rejected the Humulin idea as a replacement. Can you help me understand what the appropriate replacement should be. Of course, I’m going to pay whatever it takes to keep her healthy (her trip to the hospital was nearly $1000), but if there is a safe, less expensive alternative, that would be helpful.
Thank you for all of the information on your site. I will be contacting the lawyer about the class action suit…had I not stopped home early last month, I may have lost her…
We have an 11 year old Black Lab named Winston. He has been on Vetsulin for 5 months after developing Cushings from high amount of steroids. He had a really bad reaction from his 3 year Rabies vaccination first. Do not give this to your dog, especially if your dog is on prednisone; we were not warned.
Winston developed beta hemolytic strep in his elbow and sternum and almost died. That was in July. We can not get him off prednisone he regresses when we do. So we treat the blood sugars with prescribed Vetsulin. We noticed his blood sugars were staying in the 400-500’s last week, we were checking it twice a day and giving a sliding scale of vetsulin.
We notified our vet who was on vacation, and made an appointment to see him when he returns. Unfortunately, Winston went completely blind within 3 days. Our vet recommended an ophthalmologist to see, who confirmed blindness. He recommended bilateral cataract replacement at a cost of $3000.00 plus the risk of anesthesia, asap if his blood work is OK.
The craziest thing is that our vet did not contact us back in November with this news about Vetsulin. I asked him to change the insulin as it didn’t seem to be working. I am definitely calling the lawyer representing this. Our poor Winston has suffered so much from the vaccination reaction and now this. It needs to be regulated better.
Dear Lynn,
I am so sorry to hear about Winston and if I can help in any way I would be glad to.
I am hoping Winston has at least been switched over to DNA based insulin and that his blood sugar levels are being regulated properly,
so no further damage is occurring internally.
Better regulation is definitely needed and I agree 100% with you as this is absolutely inexcusable in my opinion.
The suffering Winston and many others dogs are experiencing is and has been needless, not to mention
the cost pet owners including yourself are incurring for which you should be completely reimbursed.
I am available toll free at 866-372-2765
Best Wishes
Dr Carol
to
Dr. Carol,
He was started on NPH this evening at my insistence to our vet this morning. He had mentioned in an email 5 days ago that there might be a problem with vetsulin that the manufacturer was working on. I told him I wanted to switch while they work it out. I am so disgusted & angry that we purchased 2 bottles of Vetsulin on 12/9/09 and was never informed of this then.
We really like & respect our vet – now we feel he has betrayed us and Winston by not informing us sooner.
Thanks for your blog, it seems to help that others feel the same.
Sherry Spencer:
Re: your comment ..
“Of course, I’m going to pay whatever it takes to keep her healthy (her trip to the hospital was nearly $1000),”
=======================================================
Too bad YOU have to pay for Schering-Plough’s greed.
Winston is scheduled to have bilateral cataract surgery 1/18/10 as long as his bloodwork is OK.
We will pursue contacting the attorney in the morning. Will ask them about reporting this event to FDA.
We want Schering-Plough to PAY- Vetsulin should be recalled immediately not just a warning.
I rescue abused and neglected animals and keep the sick ones that others usually don’t want to adopt. Of my present 23 chronically ill animals I have 2 cats on Vetsulin Ages 21 & 13 both have been on it over 2 years and free feed. I stocked up on Vetsulin in November because my experience with diabetic animals is that they may live 1-4 years if treated properly when diabetic.
I used human insulin on my 1st diabetic cat and he lasted about 2 1/2 years died at age 15 he was always having to be adjusted. I presently have a dog – TOTO – a cairn terrier on Humulin N for over 2 years as well, he is fed on schedule every 12 hours and gets his shots like clock work. I am planning to build a ramp because as of 3 days ago I realized that he is finally completely blind from the cataracts,I don’t have $3,000 to have eye surgery and I don’t know that I would put him through that given his age and other medical issues. He is happy, loved and still likes to play and terrorize the squirrels (I guess he’ll have to use smell and sound more now) he is 12 years old – he seems to be doing fine and if he has a peeing accident or drinking alot I up his dose 1/2 unit at a time and this has worked for us.
When we take medications and give them to our animals we are trying to help, I don’t think that every time something goes wrong the whole world has to blow up and scream conspiracy theory. I have never used this insulin on a dog – whom it was sold for- as I said, I’ve used it for my cats and they have done wonderful on it and I can’t afford $120.00 a vial – being disabled myself and not getting any financial support from anyone to help with the animals in my care the past 20 years.
I just do the best I can and I pray for all of mine and all of yours as well. I suggest you do the same and just show your pet as much love as you can while you can. GOOD LUCK!!
to:Sylvia Herrera & Carol Williams,
Hi, Both of you have very similar situations occur such as ours. What was the lot # of Vetsulin you were giving when this happened? Our lot # A172A01. This may be an important factor with our dogs devloping sudden blindness. I called Intervet(Schering-Plough) 1/4/09 with no response that day. Was so angry, I filed a form 1932 with FDA directly. Anyone can do this evven though you have been told manufacturer would do it. I wanted to make sure it gets to the FDA. http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/SafetyHealth/ReportaProblem/ucm055305.htm
Intervet called back yesterday & took a thorough report. We’re faxing records & bills for review for possible compensation. Not sure if we will accept…
Interesting we are case #2010-US-00064. I think that means they’re has been 64 cases reported in 2010 with Vetsulin??
Winston sees his vet in am for labwork & exam. His BS on NPH 25 units BID still 400-500’s. Don’t think he will be eligible for cataract surgery anytime soon.
He is such a trooper! Adapting to being blind- gets pissed off alot when he bumps his nose into things. He picked up a tennis ball on his own today and played. I have done alot of reading of how to take care of a blind dog- there is alot of helpful literature out there.
Please reply when you can with lot #. If identified maybe we can prevent any future incidents with our 4 legged friends! Thanks Lynn Cooper
Dear Dr. Osborne,
Thank you so much for all the time you spend educating us on these blogs. I had not heard ANYTHING about the Vetsulin recall and happened to come across it on the Internet when I was doing research for my diabetic dog, just today! Whitney was diagnosed last April 27 and it took almost 2 1/2 months to get her somewhat regulated. She has never been completely stable; has had some very high highs (up to 506) and some very low lows where she could have died (55, 44, three times in the 30’s!!). On 11/18/09, she walked across the living room floor completely sideways and kept almost collapsing as she picked herself up. I got sugar in her as fast as I could. I told my vet’s receptionist about it when I went to pick up Whit’s Vetsulin a few days later, and I was not told about the recall. I couldn’t figure out why this had happened at the time because I hadn’t done anything differently with Whitney’s needs, but now I know it could be the actual Vetsulin.
I just picked up two more bottles yesterday (at my vet’s office) and again was not told anything or I may not have paid for it. It’s $30.00 per bottle, and my dog uses almost three bottles a month. Should I try to get a refund and see if my vet will write a script out for Humulin? Whitney has been a lot thirstier and at times hungrier since she had that low sugar in November, but I thought that was because I had decreased her insulin from 18 units twice a day (less if she didn’t eat much food) to 15 or 16 units BID. I’m so afraid of her going into a hypoglycemic episode again and dying or having brain damage.
This is so upsetting to me as my three lab mixes are my children to me. I have been emotionally distressed since her diagnosis–not being able to get her completely regulated, her dreading the shots twice a day, the terrible experience of having to prick her lip (usually more than once) to test her blood sugar, and of course, her coming close to dying when her blood sugars are so low. Also, the fact that damage is being done to her organs when her glucose levels are above 300, which is not that unusual.
I keep very accurate record-keeping on her, (thirsty, hungry, blood sugar readings (prn), exercise, if she wakes us up to go potty at night or if she goes potty in the house in the day time, and what food and when she eats.
Do you know if they’re going to take Vetsulin off the market? The last two bottles I used had a lot of big bubbles at the top, and this kind of concerned me because none of the other bottles had been like this. Do you know if that meant anything? It seems like Whitney’s been pretty good since using those two bottles, but we haven’t checked her blood sugar since using them, either.
Sorry to have such a long email! Thank you so much for any help you can provide. ~Jenny
Dear Jennifer,
The problems your dog has been experiencing are due to the tainted Vetsulin. My recommendation is for you to NOT give your dog any more Vetsulin but to take the Vetsulin vials back to your vet for a full refund. Ask your vet to write you a prescription for Humulin or NPH insulin available at nearly any pharmacy for a lesser cost.
Humulin and NPH insulin are the current up to date types of DNA based insulin. Vetsulin is not DNA based but is derived from pigs. Once you get your dog regulated on the new insulin she should immediately begin to feel much, much better. The signs of thirst, hunger and excess urination are signs of Diabetes which are occurring because the Vetsulin is tainted and it is NOT able to regulate your dogs blood sugar.
You might consider having a complete set of blood tests (CBC and Chemistry Profile) taken and sent out to and run at the lab, not in your vets office and get a urinalysis to determine the current status of your dog internally, especially the liver and kidneys. It is best to buy urine glucose test strips, available at Walgreen’s, and online at Amazon, called, Diastix.
Ask your vet teach you how to check your dogs urine sugar once or twice daily depending on whether you give the insulin once or twice a day. This way you can tweek the insulin dosage daily according to the diastix reading and get your dog regulated as quickly as possible and prevent further internal organ damage.
Should you want to join the Vetsulin Class Action Law Suit call 1-419-255-5990.
For diabetic pets suffering from Vetsulin, a natural, patented, dog vitamin-supplement, called PAAWS has been effectively helping many of these diabetic pets return to good health and recover from this insult, quite quickly. In addition, Paaws dog vitamins helps to promote stable blood sugar levels and boosts internal immunity. For diabetic dogs that are currently suffering from kidney failure issues as a result of the tainted Vetsulin, we also have a wonderful, natural, herbal kidney supplement, called quantum kidney essentials that has been effectively helping the kidneys return to their normal status within 30-60 days.
I hope this information is helpful to you and if I can help you with any of this, feel free to call our office toll free at 1-866-372-2765.
Thank you,
Dr. Carol
My cat was diagnosed with diabetes and the vet prescribed Vetsulin. I gave it to him for months and saw no difference. I stopped the injections and changed his food to a low carbohydrate high protein diet. He seemed much better but still would have bouts of thirstyness after stealing table food after we turn our back. I truly thought insulin did not work for him because he seemed his old self once I stopped the vetsulin. My vet never informed me the product was recalled. The reality of the situation is changing your cats diet only works if it is incorporated with the proper medications. My cat died two days ago. I have been going over his illness in my head and trying to figure out why insulin did not work for him. This is how I found this site. If my cat had the proper insulin from the beginning he would be here today. I’m sorry to all who have lost pets.
Dear Sharon
I want to express my sympathy and understanding you you and am very sorry for your loss.
If I can help please feel free to give us a call.
God Bless
Dr Carol
To Sharon Bailey:
“I have been going over his illness in my head and trying to figure out why insulin did not work for him. ”
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Go to the search bar of this website, and type in Vetsulin.
Read our stories, and you will get your answer.
To:Jennifer Sauerwein & all:
What is the lot # of your Vetsulin? Maybe if we can prove at least that we will make headway with the FDA recalling this product instead of it being on alert- preventing further damage.
The class action lawsuit will take months if not years per the attorneys. We need to get together on this and act on it on behalf of all.
Anyone with problems with Vetsulin November/December/ January please post lot # located on your vial on this wonderful website to see if we can act quicker on this.
I know our Vet feels he has been put in a tough position by Schering-Plough with this and feels bad that our dog got sudden blindness.
Winston’s lab work came back today & his liver enzymes are elevated, kidneys OK so far. Cataract surgery definitely on back burner.He is such a great dog adapting well to his blind world. have to watch out for branches of trees when he goes near to prevent his eyes from getting poked.
Lynn
I lost my cat a few weeks ago and I think that it was from the Vetsulin that we were giving her. She would eat everything and want from 16 pounds to 6 pounds. I did not know what was going on so we keep giving her Vetsulin. The doctor really did not know about the Vetsulin problem so it was hard for her to say what was wrong. I told her about other people having animals die of Vetsulin but it was already to late. She called the FDA and they sent my cat to Cornell University for testing. We are still wainting for the test to come back due to Christmas. I hope we can find the problem and have Vetsulin recalled. We lost the best cat in the world and this should have never happened.
I have been using Vetsulin for over a year on my 9 year old Min Pin (Kelly). 8 units twice a day. Never had any prob. It was hard enough to get her regulated on the Vetsulen, I don’t really want to switch and put her through getting her regulated again.
My Vet said if she is doing O.K. why change?
I use Vetsulin for my diabetic Rat Terrier named Jesse.
The bottle that I bought in December has the same lot # A172A01 as Lynn Cooper. It appears that since I started that bottle, he has had the “problems” as others have stated. I still have some left in the bottle and have a new bottle with a different lot # to start when this bottle goes empty.
I found this site because I was doing a search because towards the end of the Vetsulin bottle, it seems to lose it’s strength and Jesse drinks constantly, and needs to urinate all the time, but thinking back, he’s done that since I started this bottle, not just towards the end of a bottle.
He was diagnosed with pancreatitis Feb 2009 after several bouts of illness. He also was diagnosed with slight asthma. The only food he is able to tolerate is IVet and no treats, the others make him sick. The end of April (spring) his asthma acted up for the first and only time and was given Temaril-P which through him into a severe pancreatic attack after a few days on the med.
He never recovered so we took him to the vet and he was diagnosed with diabetes the beginning of June. The vet put him on Vetsulin which has needed to be increased and I’ve felt since the beginning that it never quite did its job. I even have told my husband that I think he needs it 3 times a day because 2 times a day is not working. Now I know why.
He did gain back the weight he lost during the month of May, but by the end of August he sadly went blind. He just turned 4 in October. He still sees some, but not much and so far it is not diagnosed as cataracts. When my husband picked up his Vetsulin in December, the vet said there was a problem at the company and they are shut down right now and the vet has a large supply of Vetsulin to get us through the closure. No need to worry, their supply is safe.
I will be calling my vet to switch this unopened bottle of Vetsulin and get a new brand. I will be contacting the attorney. I feel so bad for the suffering my dog has gone through and I knew something wasn’t right, but yet I didn’t know. That’s the hard part, not having all the pieces to the puzzle until I came to this site today.
Dear Chris,
I am sorry Jesse suffered all this because of the unstable Vetsulin. Switching to Humulin or NPH insulin, ASAP, is wise and likely a life saving measure on your part.
Switching pets over from Vetsulin to DNA based insulin is not hard and daily regulation using Jesse’s urine and diastix will help you to regulate him at home as quickly as possible. Generally pets should be regulated within a week of beginning their new insulin.
Diastix are urine glucose strips and are available at Walgreen’s. You simply match the color of your pets urine to the numeric value on the diastix and adjust the insulin dosage accordingly. This is vital to try to minimize further internal organ damage and preserve what if any vision is left, before cataracts occur. it is important to remember that your goal each day with the urine diastix is a reading of “trace.”
Each time you get a reading of “trace”, that means you are doing a great job and you just repeat the previous insulin dosage. If the diastix reads minus 1, reduce the insulin dose by 1 unit. If the diastix reads minus 2, decrease the dose by 2 units. If the diastix reads plus 2, increase the insulin dose 2 units, if the reading is plus one, increase the insulin dose one unit. It is important to remember that you NEVER, ever increase or decrease the insulin dosage by more than 2 units.
It is always a good idea, to keep a jar of honey or karo syrup handy just in case, after giving the insulin your pet looks dazed or gets wobbly. This is a sign that the insulin dose was too high and as a result your pets blood sugar is too low. We call this hypoglycemia. If this occurs, just rub a teaspoon of the honey or karo syrup directly into your pets gums. It is immediately absorbed through the gums and enters the blood. This raises the blood sugar level almost instantly which then makes your pet feel much better and avoids a hypoglycemic or low blood sugar crisis.
The daily home routine for most diabetic pets is as follows:
You wake up, take your pet outside and collect the first morning urine. Use the diastix and get a urine sugar reading so you know what dose of insulin to give. Feed 1/3 of your pets breakfast, then give the insulin. After that, give your pet the remainder of his or her breakfast.
In the evening, just repeat the same procedure. If your pet does not eat the first part of his or her meal, before it’s time for you to inject the insulin, this is a sign that something is wrong. If this happens, do not give any insulin, call your vet.
Dr. Carol’s Tip: To save dollars: Cut each urine test strip in half longitudinally. This turns 50 diastix into 100 and cuts your cost in half.
Learn how to make a glucose curve for your pet at home. This is very helpful and will provide you and your vet with valuable information. It will allow you to monitor sugar level trends and follow your pets sugar levels accurately and cost effectively. You can also add a box at the end of each day to mark down any important signs you noticed in your pet that day such as appetite, energy levels, attitude, water consumption, frequency of urinating, etc. When ever you visit your vet bring your chart along and review it with your vet.
Once you make your pet’s sugar curve chart, be sure to post it in a convenient place like your refrigerator door. This way everyone in your family will be on the same page when it comes to your pets insulin dosages.
To make your Pets Personal Insulin Curve:
Take a piece of notebook paper and write down the date each day, down the left side of the paper. Across the top of the paper, mark down the time of day, the urine sugar reading and the dose of insulin you have given every morning and every evening.
We have had alot of success at our veterinary clinic with our diabetic canine patients by adding in digestive enzymes to help take the work load off of the already sickened pancreas. We also add probiotics, which are referred to as “good’ or “friendly” bacteria, such as Lactobacillus.
For example you’ve probably see a commercial on television for a type of yogurt called Activa. It is fine to offer pets yogurt and most pets enjoy the taste. Unfortunately your pet would need to consume so much yogurt to get enough friendly bacteria he would likely end up with another stomach ache. So we use concentrated PROBIOTIC supplements, mixed with your pets meals to accomplish this. We promote normal digestion while letting the sickened pancreas take a break.
“Friendly” bacteria are normally present in the digestive system and are responsible for absorbing digested dietary nutrients. With repeated bouts of indigestion and sensitive stomachs, the good or friendly bacteria get replaced by “bad” gas forming bacteria which prolong digestion issues and make returning to good health that much harder for your dog.
The pancreas is a small flat organ smaller than a kitchen sponge. Half of the pancreas makes digestive enzymes and the other half makes insulin. With repeated stomach upsets, including bouts of vomiting and diarrhea, the half making digestive enzymes gets inflamed and releases digestive enzymes to the point that it becomes so exhausted, pancreatitis results. With repeated bouts of pancreatitis, the other “insulin producing” half of the pancreas gets worn out and can no longer make insulin. The result is Diabetes.
We also discuss pet diets with our patients and have enjoyed success in many of our diabetic pets using home-made organic diets and a natural, patented vitamin-supplement called Paaws. Paaws vitamins balance out your pets home-made pet diet, boost internal immunity and helps to further stabilize blood sugar levels, making insulin regulation that much easier.
Many diabetic dogs also suffering with kidney issues have returned to normal kidney function by adding in the Kidney Essentials, a wonderful, natural, herbal kidney supplement.
For blind pets that already have cataracts, I am not aware of anything to reverse cataracts. However diabetic pets that can still see, have benefited from the Eye Essentials, which is also a natural, herbal eye supplement.
To join the Vetsulin Class Action Law Suit call 1-419-255-5990.
I hope this information is helpful and if I can help you further our toll free office phone is 1-866-372-2765.
Best Wishes,
Dr. Carol
Who has switched to Humulin? And was it had to get your pet regulated?
I wanted to provide the information on the Vetsulin I purchased on 11/4/2009. I believe someone earlier was asking for it from people. It is from Lot No. A170A01, expiration 12-2010. My dog Molly had dangerously low readings in the 40’s on this batch. If she had ever had abnormal readings prior, it was always a little high, like 200 – 300, or higher at times. I have it documented since I checked her glucose regurarly. She was a happy vibrant dog until this Vetsulin was administered. She was put on the the NPH Insulin on 11/17/2009. I spoke to Schering Plough, their Technical Department, and filed a claim via fax with my vet supplying receipts and the vial of Vetsulin I wanted refunded. I just heard from them on January 11,2010 that they were going to reimburseme me for the full amount of my Vetsulin and the Glucose Curve necessary to change Molly to the the NPH Insulin. I should mention that they made arrangements to pick up the vial of Vetsulin from my vet on 11/19/2009, but come to find out that it was not scheduled to be picked up 12/7/2009. I found this out on 12/9/2009. What is the delay I wonder. I hope they refrigerated it to do testing. Anyways, I was told by the Technical Rep. of Schering Plough that I would get the refund with release papers. I will have to wait and see what these papers are about. Probably releasing them from liability. If so, I don’t think so. I hope this helps.
Oh, yeah, does Schering Plough have a research department?
Hi Michael
Yes Intervet/Schering-Plough does have a research department and you should be able to contact them through the site phone number located at the intervet web site.
Dr Carol
I am so grateful for this blog. It has probably saved us a lot of grief. And thank God we won’t be needing to put our name on the class action suit.
We travel full time in an RV, so are constantly on the move. Hence, no permanent vet. Our 11 year old Bischon (Casper) has been showing the standard signs of diabetes (though I was originally thinking kidney issues). We finally got to a place where we would be for a week or so and took him to a vet yesterday.
His glucose was elevated (both urine and local blood test) and we are still waiting for the panel to come back. Meanwhile, he said to switch him immediately to w/d dry dogfood and prescribed/sold us a vial of Vetsulin. Said nothing of any issues with it.
Well, we came back to the RV and thought we would do a little research on canine diabetes. So glad we did! We went back to the vet with the Vetsulin this morning armed with a copy of the FDA recall, giving him the benefit of the doubt that perhaps he had not heard of the recall. Not so! He said that was why they had purchased a whole bunch of it so they wouldn’t run out! At least he did not hesitate to refund our money – Then asked what we wanted him to prescribe instead. That part makes me a little leary. I suggested NPH.
It will be imperative that we learn real quick how to figure out how to regulate the insulin. Hopefully, the Diastix strips will be helpful with that. Learning what signs to watch for will be critical. And finding vets as we travel just gained a whole new level of complexity. Is there a recommendation for how often a blood test needs to be done?
Also, I really would prefer to make his food myself, if possible. I see a lot of options listed on various other web sites. Dr. Carol, do you or anyone else have any good suggestions for that?
Thanks again for this blog. And I am so sorry for all of you and the issues with your “children”.
We switched Winston from vetsulin to NPH insulin 1/3/10 after his blood sugars went crazy high( over 500). His vet started him on low dose and gradually increased with his blood sugars being checked 2 X a day and a glucose curve. He is 73 lbs and went from 20 U Vetsulin BID to 16 u NPH BID to slowly increased to 28u BID over 9 days. He seems to be at a constant level in 300’s for 3 days. We sre excited about this as if he continues with his blood sugar regulating, he will be able to have cataract surgery next week to restore his vision. We will do another curve in 2 days to check. Cost of NPH is 2 1/2 cheaper than Vetsulin as it less diluted. It was an easy transition. Again if anyone has had problems with Vetsulin, please post your lot #, I am trying hard to get Vetsulin recalled not just put on alert so that they stop selling this product while they work on its problems. Our lot # is A172A01 exp 12/2010. So far their are 3 cases on this post w/ same lot # and serious problems with their pets. I would like to be able to get several more. Remember to report your problem to Schering-Plough. They have offered to review case for compensation to us, we are waiting to see what happens to our dog. Thanks
We have an awesome vet and she switched our little Yorkie over to Novolin, which can be procured at most Walmart pharmacies. Walmart even has the “generic” brand of the “Novolin”, which is called “ReliOn”.
The cost of ReliOn is about what we paid for the Vetsulin, and the new needles cost the same. Our Yorkie has done VERY well on the new insulin. It MUST be administered at a lower dose (our Vetsulin dose was 2.5 units, the Novolin dose is 1 unit). Ask your vet about switching. I highly recommend it!
Hi again. Sorry for the late response. My father-in-law had to borrow our laptop all week while my husband fixed his computer.
Dr. Osborne, thank you for the information. I was looking back at vet receipts, and I had been in the vet’s office FIVE times since towards the beginning of November when this Vetsulin “alert” was first heard about, and not a word was said to me about the Vetsulin possibly being ineffective. Plus they could’ve told me any time I called in the Vetsulin to be ordered. This proves to me my vet is more interested in making money than my pet’s health or LIFE, and this is very upsetting to me. I honestly didn’t think my vet was like that. GREED is just everywhere. I’m sure the vets and Schering-Plough are in it together just like vets and Hill’s Science Diet dog food, which has so many terrible ingredients in it. If your dog eats this stuff, she’ll be unhealthy, and then she has to go to the vet, and the vet makes money!! Well, that’s my conspiracy theory, anyway!
Anyway (!), I’m going to ask my vet to write my dog a script for something else and ask him why in the world I was never informed of the Vetsulin alert.
Whitney’s blood sugar was 298 on 1/15/10, three hours after receiving 16 units. 298 seems a lot higher than it should be. (She had eaten all her food.)
Lynn, the Vetsulin lot number was A176A01 (expires January 2011 )that I used up thru 1/14/10, morning, and since then I’ve used that bottle in some evenings and on the weekend when I’d be here to keep an eye on her; and in the mornings thru the week or when we’re not going to be home to keep an eye on her, I’ve used another bottle—lot number A193A01 (expires December 2011)—the most recent bottle since I found about the Vetsulin alert.
Chris S., I also felt like shots twice a day wasn’t enough and started giving Whitney shots three times a day last May for a few weeks. That also didn’t seem to work so I went back to twice daily. That was during the time I was trying to get her regulated, though. After 2 1/2 months after being diagnosed, she was somewhat regulated. It sounds like if Whitney had had another type of insulin, she would’ve much more regulated all these months.
Dr. Osborne, I give Whitney a lot of vitamins and supplements: A, B vitamins, C, D, E, Milk Thistle, Chromium Picolinate, Bilberry, Ginseng, MSM, and Zinc. I feed her Flint River Ranch which has all excellent ingredients, and I cook steak or chicken and add it to her dog food.
Thank you for everyone’s help on this blog!
Oh, yes, Dr. Osborne, I did have a complete CBC test run on Whitney in the beginning of November that was sent out of a lab, and everything was normal.
I’ve read different things as far as what number the blood glucose starts causing organ damage–250 and 300. Can you tell me what number is the very highest I want to see when checking her blood sugar? Thank you.
Lynn, I’m sorry your dog went blind. That must be so terrible for both of you! I have read on many different web sites that a diabetic pet can go blind in a matter of days or weeks no matter if their diabetes was caught early and regulated very quickly or not. It may not have been the Vetsulin that caused it. I’d be interested in Dr. Osborne’s opinion.
Thank you. ~Jennifer
Dear Jennifer,
I am glad to talk to you and help with this. It sounds like you are using a blood monitor to regulate your dog which is fine as long as it is accurate, properly calibrated and matches your vets blood sugar readings. Cataracts is one result of Diabetes, and in the case of pets suffering with tainted Vetsulin, this would occur more quickly.
As a practicing veterinarian for many, many years, who has a great deal of experience with diabetic pets, I have personally NEVER seen Cataracts occur in any diabetic pet in a matter of days. I suppose it is possible but in my opinion, very unlikely.
My guess is the the Vetsulin was the culprit in your pets case.
If I can help feel free to call our office toll free at 1-866-372-2765.
Best Wishes,
Dr Carol
Hi Dr. Carol,
I was questioning my vet’s recommendation that I use Lantus instead of Humulin. He was not super responsive when I asked him for more information about it and I’m feeling a little lost in all of this with the Vetsulin recall.
I started my girl on Lantus three days ago at a decreased dose and so far so good. My vet assures me that the 28-day expiration on the Lantus is not an issue and the decreased potency is the way to go.
Do you have thoughts on this? With my girl’s bout of hypoglycemia looming in the not-so-distant past, I’m now questioning everything. Thank you for reading this, and I look forward to your reply.
Dear Sherry,
If cost is not an issue and your cat is doing well on the Lantus that’s fine.
If cost is an issue then Humulin insulin which costs under $30.00 a bottle seems to make much more sense, than spending $120.00 for a bottle of Lantus.
Regarding the fact that the Lantus you bought for $120.00 has an expiration date of only 28 days, makes me wonder and is a red flag in my opinion.
Decreased potency of the short dated Lantus makes no absolutely sense at all!! May I ask how you and/or your vet are monitoring her daily Lantus dosages?
I hope this information is helpful and am glad to help you further. My direct office line is 866-372-2765.
Best Wishes
Dr Carol
Hi Dr. Carol,
I have just read through the previous thread and am shocked and appalled at all I have read!!! My 9 year old Mini Schnauzer has been taking Vetsulin since diagnosed last June. In the past three months his needs have increased from 9 units to 12 and he is developing cataracts. I told my vet I want to switch to NPH insulin starting today! Do you have any suggestions? Wish us luck!
Hi Tracy,
Yes, I am glad to help you and you are on the correct path. Making the switch today or as soon as possible is very wise to help minimize further internal organ damage and preserve whatever vision remains for your dog.
You want to ask your vet for a prescription for either NPH or Humulin insulin, at your vets discretion and be sure your needles match the units on your new insulin-either 40IU or 100IU. DNA based insulin is readily available at nearly any pharmacy including Walmart for ~$28.00 a bottle.
To monitor insulin dosages at home and get your dog re-regulated on his new insulin as quickly as possible, I recommend picking up a bottle of urine glucose test strips, either Diastix or Keto-Diastix, whichever is available. Walgreen’s carries Diastix.
I hope this is helpful.
If you’d like me to help you with insulin dosages and home regulation, please call my office toll free at 1-866-372-2765.
Thank you,
DR Carol
Tracy,
I have a miniature schnauzer that is 7 years old and developed diabetes 5 months ago. I had her on Vetsulin and due to the recall, I stopped immediately and went to Humulin N. I started her out at 5 units using a 100unit syringe (very important) and after 3 months she is up to 7.5 units. Based on the fact that she weighs about 16lbs, the vet said that that dose is fine.
It is a matter of severity and fortunately mine has not shown other debilitating signs. When she started on Vetsulin, she went from 5 units to 10 units (using a 40 unit syringe) and still could not control it and after seeing to recall understood why no matter how much I gave her it would have any effect.
The important part is that the Humulin is DNA derived and does not have the inconsistencies of the Vetsulin product. I hope you have the same results that I have had with the Humulin N.
Dear Jennifer,
Like Dr. Carol said to have sudden blindness is not normal. I wish we had known about the alert on Vetsulin sooner. Winston was started on Vetsulin beginning August (developed Cushings-steroid induced diabetes from septic arthritis/receiving vaccinations) and even the 1st glucose curve our vet said something unusual is happening here as his sugars were up and down never a plateau. Several other curves to follow to find “nadir”(lowest point) were not correlating.
As an Emergency Room Registered Nurse of 27 years, I questioned our vet as to the fluctuation of his sugars and was told “it’s not like humans- diabetes in animal are a lot harder to regulate”. We were told to try and keep his blood sugar between 200-400 with him on Prednisone. It was very hard on us when Winston went blind as we have done everything that we thought we were to do…. but we were never told about the problem with Vetsulin till it became to late. There was no gradual increase in cloudiness of the eyes. One day he could see next day vision gone.
Today Winston had cataract surgery. It went very well. He has his vision restored. Has to wear a protecting collar for 1 month. We have to apply all kinds of eye drops 6 times a day (as well as antibiotics by mouth).
They told us nothing by mouth after midnight- his blood sugar was 300 this morning they checked his blood sugar twice and it was in the 300’s. I gave him 14 units of NPH insulin after surgery. When we brought him home at 5:30 his glucose was 68!!! Oh my god they never fed him even though we provided the food. We immediately fed him (a little extra) and called our primary to inform-held NPH.
It feels like it is such a battle at times to keep our dog healthy when there are such idiots out there. We are happy Winston’s sight has been restored (price of $3,0000) but are agonized that he is moaning a bit and has had to go through this surgery and pain due to instability of Vetsulin causing his blindness.
Please anyone who still has their dog/cat on Vetsulin please transition to NPH insulin asap. Winston’s blood sugar evened out within 7 days of being on NPH insulin. Don’t be like others out there whose pets have suffered after it’s too late. Do not continue Vetsulin on your pet while manufacturer is working out their problems!
Correction about Winston’s blood sugar we paid the eye hospital to have his blood sugar checked twice. It was 300 & then 200- THEY gave him 14 units of NPH after surgery was done and never fed him even though we provided food.
Dear Lynn
If I can help you with insulin regulation or else wise please let me know
Best Wishes
Dr Carol
I am sick as I read this information regarding the use of Vetsulin. I just happened to be watching a local talk show today and heard a veterinarian speak about Vetsulin being recalled. This is the first I have ever heard of this! We had our 8 year old diabetic lab, Emma put down on 12/4/2009 after she would not eat or respond to anything. She suddenly became lethargic and sick shortly after Thanksgiving and refused to eat. She had been on Vetsulin for 2 years and there had been no problems.
We took her to the vet and they could not find anything wrong with her and kept asking if she could have possibly gotten into any “poison”. They said her blood sugar was high, but everything else seemed okay..she was definitely not okay. They gave her a nausea shot and she just got worse the next day. She was already blind and we were just financially drained, so we felt we had no choice but to put her down.
Now..I am wondering if the Vetsulin could have killed her. Now that I hear this, it really makes sense, because was never any explanation of what suddenly happened to my dog. My husband has even said that each times in those last days that we gave her the injections..she seemed to get worse. My vet never told us about a recall or even suggested that this could be a problem or to use anything else. I have no idea if they are still selling the Vetsulin, but I plan to find out.
Unfortunately, I did not keep the last container of Vetsulin that I had left, but I have all of my records of purchasing this through the past 2 years.
I find it very upsetting that this could be the explanation of what happened to Emma and could have been avoided with the correct information about this medication. I would assume that the vets would be the first ones to be notified of any recalls…..how else would we ever know unless we hear it from the media or internet..like I just did. Only.. it is now too late for us and Emma.
Dear Lori
I am truly sorry for your loss.
Unfortunately many diabetic pet owners are dealing with this Vetsulin problem and have also lost their pets and suffered both
financially and emotionally. Sadly, it does appears the product is still being sold to well meaning diabetic pet owners.
There is a Vetsulin Class Action Law Suit you can join by calling 419-255-5990.
You can also contact Intervet/Schering-Plough directly.
If I can help in any way please call my office toll free at 1-866-372-2765.
God Bless
Dr Carol
Dear Dr Carol,
I have a 14 year old black lab “Shadow” that was diagnosed with diabetes 2 years ago. When Shadow was diagnosed I asked our vet specifically if Shadow could go on human insulin and he said that vetsulin was a safer solution as it was made specifically for pets.
My doctor told me at that time that most diabetic dogs become blind at some point but Shadow was older and probably would not go blind in his lifetime. Within 2 weeks from going on vetsulin he went blind very suddenly and rather strangely. My husband and I were watching TV and our dogs were in their usual spots around us, Shadow was lying on the floor and suddenly let out a load sequel. When we jumped up to see what was wrong his eyes looked like they rolled back in his head and instantly he was blind. Could this of been caused by the vetsulin?
Shadow remained on vetsulin until December this year when I called the vet to get a new prescription and they advised us they weren’t carrying vetsulin anymore and that we needed to come in for a new prescription. My husband picked up the prescription and the nurse told him vetsulin was recalled but never mentioned anything about the dangers of this drug.
Within less than a week taking the NPH I noticed a significant change in Shadow. He was gaining weight, he wasn’t as lethargic or as thirsty. I was finally seeing the return of my happy go lucky, love monster. I know Shadow is an older dog, but it is frustrating to think he may of gone blind from the medicine that was supposed to be helping him. Not to mention all the other issues he has been dealing with for the past two years.
Our pets deserve MUCH better than a greedy corporation making money off their pain. I have spent thousands of dollars on this drug thinking I was doing the right thing for my beloved Shadow, when in fact I could of been harming him.
I am very frustrated and angry, not only is NPH working better but it cost’s less and last’s longer. I feel like the welfare of Shadow was overlooked for the almighty dollar.
Hi Tammy
I am very glad Shadow is doing well on his new DNA based insulin and your comments are well warranted.
There is a Vetsulin Class Action Law Suit. To Join call is 419-255-5990.
your DNA based insulin is state of the art, well regulated and economical at a cost of $24-$28.00 a bottle.
You might want to also be aware that the Vetsulin is also being currently marketed as Prozinc for a price of $140.00 a bottle.
Prozinc is the exact same pig-based insulin product as Vetsulin with a higher price tag.
If I can help with any other questions, our toll free office phone is 866-372-2765.
Best Wishes
Dr Carol
Dear Dr Carol,
Thank you for your response. I will be joining the class action law suit to do my part to make sure this company does not hurt anymore harmless animals.
Thank you!
Hi Tammy
To join the Vetsulin Class Action Law Suit call 419-255-5990
Dr Carol
I have been in contact with the lawyer and he is sending me the info to join the class action law suit.
Thank you for all your help and getting this info out to
pet owners; if we all do our part maybe we can prevent Vetsulin from killing or endangering anymore innocent animals.
Tammy
My dog was well regulated on vetsulin. My vet never told me it was going off the market. I found out through a supplier. All of a sudden my dog starting drinking tons of water and was extremely lethargic. The vetsulin quit working or was tainted and now she is partially blind and having seizures.
The vet’s initial answer to this was raise the vetsulin dosage even though I told him it was taken off the market. He even tried to sell me his last 2 bottles! Just started her on Humulin and the process all over again!
Michael
I am very sorry to hear about your dog. In our case, we caught it in time when she started drinking water profusely and urinating in the house which she never did. Just as I was questioning the vet and of course his answer was give her more Vetsulin, the recall came about. I am in the pharmaceutical industry for over 40 years and I got the FDA notice before the consumer and I immediately had the vet change to Humulin even though he protested and I had to give hium a copy of the recall notice! You are right to say that you have to start over again withg the dosage since you can’t just use the same amount due to the different syringe size and different product. I started at 3 units of Humulin N and now I am at 7.5 units and it seems to have worked for a miniature schnauser weighing 16lbs. The stories I read about cataracts, blindness and other debilitating diseases to people animals weighs heavily on my heart since profit by the big Pharma overshadows the right thing to do whether it be animal or human. I hope all works out and you have the same success that I have had with Humulin N. Best wishes
Dr. Carol-
I’m Rick Kerger’s law partner, and am working on the class action case along with him. I wanted to thank you for your support. There are many, many people who have contacted us for help. We’ll do everything we can.
I’m not just a lawyer, I’m also the owner of a wonderful 7 year old chocolate lab-Chessie mix, and I would feel so infuriated if something like this had happened to her!! We are glad to fight this fight.
Keep up the good work.
Steve Hartman
Hi Steve,
I am glad you are helping all these diabetic dog and cat owners and have heard very nice comments from the pet owners who have contacted you.
If I can offer anything to help, please let me know.
Best Wishes
Dr Carol