Pro-Pectalin

What is Pro-Pectalin™?

Pro-Pectalin™ is a digestive health and probiotic supplement used in cats and dogs. It contains kaolin, pectin, and probiotic bacteria. Pro-Pectalin™ products are formulated to help maintain a balanced microbial flora, promote intestinal health, support normal digestive function, and reduce occasional loose stools due to environmental stress or changes in diet.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not review non-drug health products (e.g., herbals, nutraceuticals, shampoos, and other supplements) for safety or effectiveness before they are sold to the public. Manufacturers of non-drug health products must ensure their products are safe and labeled accurately. The FDA requires that these non-pharmaceuticals contain a disclaimer that says, “This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” Health Canada licenses “veterinary health products” after reviewing safety, efficacy, and manufacturing information provided by the manufacturer. These products are not tested by Health Canada.

Your veterinarian is the best source of information about the safety of non-drug health products in pets. Just because a product is natural does not mean it is safe. All medicines and medicinal plants are potentially toxic if used inappropriately or given at high doses. Supplements can also have side effects, like pharmaceuticals. Few supplements and herbs have been subjected to rigorous scientific trials to determine their efficacy. 

Although the information in this handout may be helpful, it may also be incomplete and may not represent the full range of effects the supplement could have on your pet.

How do I give my pet Pro-Pectalin™?

• Pro-Pectalin™ is given orally (by mouth) as powder, oral paste, or chewable, flavored tablets.
• It may be given with or without food.
• Give this supplement at least 2 hours before or 3–4 hours after additional medications.
• Follow your veterinarian’s directions and use products according to their label.
• Ideally, give this product at the same time daily.
• Ensure access to fresh, clean drinking water.
• Wash hands after handling.
• Do not handle if you have a known sensitivity to this supplement.

This product should take effect within 1–2 days, and improvement in clinical signs should follow.

What if I miss giving my pet the supplement?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once. 

Are there any potential side effects from Pro-Pectalin™?

Pro-Pectalin™ may cause the following side effects:

• Constipation
• Mild gastrointestinal symptoms, such as loose stools, flatulence, and stomach upset

Serious adverse reactions associated with this drug may occur without warning and could, in rare cases, lead to death. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving Pro-Pectalin™ and contact your veterinarian immediately:

• Inability to have a bowel movement
• Development of a fever
• Low energy level
• Loss of appetite

Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting supplement should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease. 

Are there any risk factors for this supplement?

DO NOT USE Pro-Pectalin™ in pets that:

• Are allergic to it or to any of the ingredients in the product
• Are critically ill, dehydrated, or have severe vomiting 
• Are immunocompromised
• Have diarrhea caused by an infection

DO NOT USE kaolin-bismuth subsalicylate combination (Kaopectate®) in cats.

Contact your veterinarian if your animal's condition does not improve or worsens despite this treatment, or if diarrhea persists for longer than 48-72 hours after initiation of treatment.

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

The following drugs may interact with Pro-Pectalin™:

• Digoxin
• Clindamycin, lincomycin
• Penicillamine
• Sulfa-/trimethoprim

Pro-Pectalin™: may affect the absorption of other medications. It is important to give this supplement at least 2 hours before or 3–4 hours after additional medications.

Certain medications and products may interact with Pro-Pectalin™ and so it is important to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your dog is taking before starting any new product use.

Is any monitoring needed with this product?

• At home, monitor for any abnormal changes. If any occur, discontinue the product and contact your veterinarian. 
• Your veterinarian will let you know when they want to reassess your pet to ensure the product is working and not causing side effects.

How do I store Pro-Pectalin™?

• Ensure products are stored in tightly sealed containers to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F), in a cool dry place, away from heat and direct sunlight. 
• Protect from freezing. 

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the supplement/treatment, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms. Report any adverse effects to the FDA or Health Canada.