Desoxycortone pivalate
Also known as: Zycortal · Desoxycortisone pivalate · DOCP
Reviewed by the VetSheet Veterinary TeamUpdated Apr 5, 2026Evidence-based veterinary reference
Doses are a clinical reference for licensed veterinary professionals. Always confirm against the current label and the individual patient.
Dosing by species
🌎 NA — North America🌍 EU — Europe
Dogs
| Indication | Dose | Route | Frequency | Duration | Region |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary hypoadrenocorticism (Addison's disease) | Initial dose 1.5-2.2 mg/kg (final dose can be between 1.0 and 2.7 mg/kg) | SC | long-acting (interval not specified in text) | Long-term replacement | 🌍 EU |
- Primary hypoadrenocorticism (Addison's disease): Many authorities start at the lower dose of 1.5 mg/kg SC, particularly in larger dogs.
Cats
| Indication | Dose | Route | Frequency | Duration | Region |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary hypoadrenocorticism (Addison's disease) | Initial dose 2.2 mg/kg | SC | long-acting | Long-term replacement | 🌍 EU |
- Primary hypoadrenocorticism (Addison's disease): Experience is limited but higher doses seem to be needed.
Doses are a clinical reference for licensed veterinary professionals. Always confirm against the current label and the individual patient.
Overview
Long-acting, replacement therapy for mineralocorticoid deficiency in dogs and cats with primary hypoadrenocorticism (Addison's disease).
Warning: It is critical that Addison's disease is definitively diagnosed before starting treatment.
Warning: Any dog presenting with severe hypovolaemia, dehydration, pre-renal azotaemia, and inadequate tissue perfusion (Addisonian crisis) must be rehydrated with intravenous fluid (saline) therapy before starting treatment with this product.
Clinical Pearl: Many dogs require lower doses than the authorized 2.2 mg/kg. Starting at 1.5 mg/kg SC is common, particularly in larger dogs, with final maintenance doses often ranging between 1.0 and 2.7 mg/kg. Use lower doses in patients with congestive heart disease, severe renal disease, primary hepatic failure, or oedema.
Mechanism of action
Acts as a mineralocorticoid replacement. It binds to mineralocorticoid receptors in the distal renal tubules → increases sodium reabsorption and promotes potassium excretion → restores electrolyte balance and maintains extracellular fluid volume and blood pressure.
Safety & warnings
Contraindications
- None strictly listed, but use with caution in congestive heart disease, severe renal disease, primary hepatic failure, or oedema
Adverse effects
- Pain on injection (rarely repeated in the same animal)
- Polyuria
- Polydipsia
- Hypokalaemia (with overdose)
- Vomiting
- Anorexia
- Muzzle swelling
- Anaphylaxis
Precautions
Handling Precaution: The vials are stable for several months once opened. Before use, shake gently to resuspend the product and continue to move the loaded syringe before injection to prevent precipitation.
Drug interactions
Aldosterone antagonist; counteracts the effects of desoxycortone
May excessively reduce potassium levels
May excessively reduce potassium levels
Monitoring
- Serum sodium and potassium levels
- Hydration status
- Renal function parameters (BUN, Creatinine)
- Clinical signs of Addison's relapse or overdosage (PU/PD)
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
Slowly absorbed from the subcutaneous injection site providing long-acting effects.
Overdose
Overdoses may cause polyuria and hypokalaemia. Monitor electrolytes closely if overdose is suspected.
Available products
Formulations
- Injectable: 25 mg/ml suspension for subcutaneous injection
Veterinary
- Zycortal 25 mg/ml injectable suspension
Regulatory status
POM-V
POM-V
No regulatory data for: 🇺🇸 US · 🇭🇰 HK · 🇹🇼 TW · 🇯🇵 JP · 🇰🇷 KR · 🇦🇺 AU
Storage & stability
Normal precautions should be observed. The vials, once opened, are stable for several months.
Client information
This medication is a long-term replacement therapy for your pet's missing hormones. Do not miss doses. Regular blood tests will be required to check electrolyte levels (sodium and potassium) to ensure the dose is exactly right for your pet. Contact your vet if you notice excessive drinking, excessive urination, vomiting, or lethargy.
VetSheet drug reference is intended for licensed veterinary professionals as a clinical decision-support aid, not a substitute for professional judgement or the manufacturer’s current label.