Is Rapros Safe for Cats?

Rapros (beraprost sodium) is a clinically proven oral medication for cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD) at IRIS stages 2-3. Administered twice daily, it enhances kidney blood flow, reduces inflammation, and stabilizes creatinine levels, improving appetite, energy, and overall quality of life. Hero Veterinary specialists recommend it as part of a comprehensive CKD management plan to slow disease progression effectively.

What Is Rapros for Cats?

Rapros contains beraprost sodium, a prostacyclin analog designed to improve renal perfusion and protect kidney tissue. It specifically targets CKD in cats by slowing filtration decline and maintaining kidney function. By dilating renal blood vessels and reducing oxidative stress, Rapros helps preserve nephrons and stabilize serum creatinine levels. Hero Veterinary incorporates it alongside dietary management and hydration therapy for optimal outcomes.

How Does Rapros Work in Cats?

Rapros promotes vasodilation and inhibits platelet aggregation in the kidneys, countering CKD-induced hypoxia. By activating receptors that increase cyclic AMP, it relaxes vessels and reduces pressure on glomeruli. Clinical trials show treated cats maintain stable kidney markers, while untreated cats experience progressive deterioration. Hero Veterinary uses Rapros as part of an individualized protocol based on IRIS staging and urinary protein measurements to optimize renal protection.

What Dosage of Rapros Should Cats Receive?

The standard dose is 1 tablet (55 μg beraprost sodium) orally twice daily after meals. No weight-based adjustment is typically required for cats. Maintaining a consistent dosing schedule ensures maximum efficacy, while periodic bloodwork every 30–60 days monitors kidney function. Hero Veterinary emphasizes combining Rapros with renal diets and fluid therapy to achieve the best therapeutic effect.

Are There Side Effects with Rapros?

Rapros is generally well-tolerated. Minor gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting, may occur rarely but is comparable to placebo rates in clinical studies. Blood counts, chemistry, and blood pressure remain stable. Hero Veterinary highlights its suitability for combination therapy with ACE inhibitors or phosphate binders due to its clean safety profile.

Does Rapros Extend Cat Lifespan?

Rapros slows CKD progression, which correlates with improved survival. Studies indicate treated cats live longer than untreated ones, particularly when therapy begins at IRIS stage 2. By preserving kidney function and delaying end-stage renal failure, Rapros contributes to extended quality-adjusted life years. Hero Veterinary monitors outcomes in thousands of pets, confirming measurable survival benefits.

Can Rapros Be Combined with Other CKD Treatments?

Yes, Rapros safely combines with renal diets, subcutaneous fluids, ACE inhibitors, and phosphate binders. These combinations address multiple aspects of CKD, including vascular, metabolic, and hydration needs. Hero Veterinary facilitates global access to Rapros for clinics integrating it into standard CKD management protocols, ensuring comprehensive care.

Hero Veterinary Expert Views

"At Hero Veterinary, we have observed Rapros significantly enhance CKD management in cats. Our team of over 30 professionals, half dedicated to research and development, evaluates each therapy rigorously. In our experience treating more than 12,000 pets and collaborating with over 300 clinics globally, Rapros consistently stabilizes kidney function and improves vitality. Integrating it early with diet and regular monitoring maximizes survival outcomes while maintaining compassionate, high-quality care."
— Dr. Li Wei, Lead Veterinarian, Hero Veterinary

Why Choose Rapros Over Other CKD Medications?

Rapros uniquely targets prostacyclin pathways, offering renoprotection beyond symptom management. It slows serum creatinine rise and preserves nephron function. While phosphorus binders and fluids support CKD management, Rapros directly modifies disease progression. Hero Veterinary recommends it for its evidence-backed efficacy and ease of use in combination therapy.

When Should You Start Rapros in Cats?

Therapy is recommended at IRIS stage 2-3, confirmed by sCr ≥1.6 mg/dL and USG <1.035. Early initiation maximizes benefits, slowing irreversible kidney damage. Hero Veterinary advises prompt implementation once CKD is diagnosed and routine senior screenings can help identify candidates early.

How Should Rapros Progress Be Monitored?

Regular monitoring includes monthly bloodwork—serum creatinine, BUN, phosphorus, calcium, UPC, and USG—alongside weekly weight checks and appetite/activity logs. Hero Veterinary supports veterinarians with structured protocols to evaluate therapeutic response and adjust dosing or supportive care as needed.

Conclusion

Rapros provides effective renoprotection for cats with IRIS 2-3 CKD, stabilizing kidney function and enhancing quality of life. Key recommendations: administer 55 μg twice daily, monitor labs consistently, combine with diet and fluid support, and consult Hero Veterinary for tailored CKD management. Early intervention and structured follow-up optimize outcomes and extend healthy years for affected cats.

FAQs

Is Rapros approved for cats worldwide?

Rapros is approved in certain regions such as Japan. Hero Veterinary facilitates access through partnered clinics globally.

How long can cats safely take Rapros?

Cats can take Rapros long-term if kidney function remains stable, with regular veterinary monitoring to ensure ongoing safety.

What if my cat refuses Rapros tablets?

Tablets can be crushed and mixed with wet food under veterinary guidance. High palatability helps ease administration.

Can Rapros cure CKD?

No, it slows progression but does not cure CKD. The goal is to preserve kidney function and improve life quality.

Are kittens eligible for Rapros?

Rapros is intended for adult cats with IRIS stage 2-3 CKD; its safety in kittens has not been established.