Pronefra

Pronefra Virbac is available as an oral suspension, packaged in 60 ml or 180 ml bottles, intended for oral administration to dogs and cats. The liquid formulation facilitates precise dosing and allows for easy administration either directly into the animal’s mouth or by mixing with food.

The product comes with a dosing syringe that allows the administered amount to be adjusted precisely according to the animal’s body weight.

Pronefra for cats and dogs is primarily indicated for dogs and cats diagnosed with chronic renal failure, to support renal function and maintain metabolic balance.

The calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate in the product’s composition act by binding phosphorus in the intestine, reducing its absorption and helping to control hyperphosphataemia. 

Chitosan has the property of binding uremic toxins present in the digestive tract, limiting their reabsorption and thus reducing systemic toxic load.

Virbac Pronefra should be administered twice daily, preferably at mealtimes or immediately before feeding.

The recommended dose is:

• Cats: 1 ml for every 4 kg of body weight, twice daily.
• Dogs: 1 ml per 5 kg body weight, twice daily.

Before use, the vial must be shaken vigorously to ensure the suspension is homogenised. 

Although Pronefra for cats and dogs is generally well tolerated, there are certain situations in which it should be administered with caution. The product may not be suitable for some elderly animals or those undergoing complex medical treatment, particularly where digestive sensitivity is associated with their general state of health.

In the event of regurgitation or digestive intolerance, it is recommended to temporarily reduce the dose for a few days and closely monitor the animal’s reactions.

Pronefra Virbac should be administered as part of appropriate nutritional management of chronic renal failure. 

It is also recommended that use of the product be initiated and monitored by a veterinarian, who can periodically assess renal biochemical parameters, including serum concentrations of creatinine, urea and phosphorus. 

In general, Pronefra cats and dogs has a favourable safety profile. However, some animals may experience mild digestive reactions, such as regurgitation, transient loss of appetite or gastrointestinal discomfort.

These symptoms are usually temporary and can be managed by adjusting the dose or administering the product with food. 

Pronefra may be used in combination with other veterinary therapies prescribed for the management of chronic renal failure. 

However, as the product contains agents that bind phosphorus and intestinal toxins, there is a possibility that it may affect the absorption of certain medicines administered concurrently.

Available data do not indicate the occurrence of severe toxic effects in the event of accidental overdose with Pronefra. However, administration of quantities significantly higher than those recommended may cause digestive disorders or mineral imbalances.

If an overdose is suspected, administration should be discontinued and a veterinary surgeon consulted to assess the animal’s general condition.

The product should be stored at room temperature, in a dry place away from direct light and heat sources. The bottle must be tightly closed after each use to prevent contamination or degradation of the suspension.

The supplement must also be kept out of the reach of children and animals to prevent accidental ingestion.

• PubMed, Comparison of the palatability of five supplements intended for cats suffering from chronic kidney disease
• ResearchGate, The effect of a product containing dietary phosphate binders, calcium carbonate and magnesium, combined with other renoprotective substances (Pronefra®), on blood parameters and mineral balance in adult cats
• PubMed, An online survey on dietary habits and the use of phosphate binders by owners of cats with chronic kidney disease
• PubMed, Effects of a dietary supplement containing chitosan and calcium on calcium and phosphorus metabolism in cats