# Isoflupredone acetate for Animals: Mechanism, Doses by Species & Brands

> Isoflupredone is a glucocorticoid used in cattle for primary ketosis and in cattle, horses and pigs for inflammatory conditions (Predef 2X, 2 mg/mL). Unlike most synthetic steroids it also has strong mineralocorticoid…

- Source page: https://wevet.in/active-ingredients/isoflupredone-acetate/
- Type: Active ingredient
- Publisher: WeVet
- Updated: 2026-11-02
- Medically reviewed by: Dr. Ravi Baraiya, B.V.Sc. (2026-11-02)
- Audience: veterinarians and veterinary students

Isoflupredone is a glucocorticoid used in cattle for primary ketosis and in cattle, horses and pigs for inflammatory conditions (Predef 2X, 2 mg/mL) [2]. Unlike most synthetic steroids it also has strong mineralocorticoid effects and raises the risk of severe hypokalaemia [1].

- Class: Corticosteroid (glucocorticoid with mineralocorticoid activity)
- Brands: Predef 2X

## Dose by species

| Species | Use | Dose | Route | How often | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cattle | Ketosis and inflammatory conditions | 10–20 mg/animal [2] | IM | May be repeated in 12–24 hours | Label |
| Horses | Inflammatory conditions | 5–20 mg/animal [2] | IM | Repeated as necessary | Label |
| Pigs | Inflammatory conditions (Label: 5 mg for a 300 lb (about 136 kg) pig.) | 5 mg/animal [2] | IM |  | Label |

## Uses

- Cattle: primary bovine ketosis; supportive therapy in parturient paresis [2].
- Cattle, horses and pigs: musculoskeletal and allergic conditions (Predef 2X) [2].

## Mechanism of action

Glucocorticoids bind receptors in the cell cytoplasm and the hormone–receptor complex changes which proteins the cell makes; one of these, lipocortin, inhibits phospholipase A2, the first step of prostaglandin and leukotriene production [1]. Isoflupredone lacks selectivity for glucocorticoid over mineralocorticoid effects [1].

## Safety

- Increases the risk of severe hypokalaemia — stop treatment if signs appear [1][2].
- May induce the first stage of parturition in the last trimester of pregnancy [2].
- Do not use in calves to be processed for veal or in horses intended for human consumption [2].

## Withdrawal periods

- Cattle, meat: 7 days — Predef 2X (US): not slaughtered within 7 days of the last treatment. [2]
- Pigs, meat: 7 days — Predef 2X (US): not slaughtered within 7 days of the last treatment. [2]

## Frequently asked questions

### Why can isoflupredone cause low potassium?

It has strong mineralocorticoid activity, which increases the risk of severe hypokalaemia [1].

## References

[1] Corticosteroids in Animals — Merck Veterinary Manual (2024). https://www.merckvetmanual.com/pharmacology/inflammation/corticosteroids-in-animals
[2] PREDEF 2X (isoflupredone acetate) — label — Drugs.com Vet — US label text, Zoetis (2026). https://drugs.com/vet/predef-2x.html

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Numbers in [brackets] cite the references above. For veterinary professionals. Information supports — never replaces — clinical judgement; always check the current product label and local regulations.
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