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Diethylstilbestrol (DES; brand names: Apstil®, Boestrol®, Destibenol®, Distibene®, Honvol®, Stilbestrol®) is a hormonal agent and a synthetic estrogen used to treat urinary incontinence and other diseases responsive to estrogen. This medication is no longer commercially available in the United States but may be available from compounding pharmacies.
Its use in dogs to treat urinary incontinence is off label (extra label). Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
Diethylstilbestrol is considered a hazardous drug, so it is essential avoid accidental exposure. Wear gloves when handling the medication and do not handle it if you are pregnant or nursing. If it is necessary, wear gloves and wash your hands immediately after administration. If your pet vomits after giving this drug, wear gloves while cleaning up.
This medication should take effect within 1 to 2 days, and improvements in clinical signs should follow.
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.
Diethylstilbestrol may cause the following side effects:
Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving diethylstilbestrol and contact your veterinarian immediately:
Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This moderate-acting medication should stop working in a few days, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.
DO NOT USE diethylstilbestrol in:
USE WITH EXTREME CAUTION in:
The following medications should be used with caution when given with diethylstilbestrol:
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, 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.
© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Last updated on Jun 11, 2025.
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