BCP PZI

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Ginny & Alex

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I called my vet today and told him rather than waiting 1-4 weeks for the free sample, I'd just like to order a vial.
A few minutes ago, his wife called me b/c the doctor is ill. He is requesting that I call the BCP pharmacy and tell them what I want and ask them to call him (he never answers his phone, you must ALWAYS leave a message) and he will authorize. I don't think they will go for this, but I will try tomorrow morning.

Here are the3 PZI products available:
BCP PZI® insulin is available in 100u/ml 5ml or 10ml, 50u/ml 10ml & 40u/ml 10ml.

Do you have any idea which one I should request? Does it really matter?

The website also talks about possibly being able to regulate with 1 dose a day. How did you think I should start out? Once a day? Twice a day? 1/2 unit? Since my vet is not familiar with this insulin, I don't think he's going to be able to give me any advice.

Copied from the website: "BCP Veterinary Pharmacy has replicated the discontinued formula for 100% bovine protamine zinc insulin (PZI). With only one amino acid difference occurring at site A18, bovine PZI is the closest match to feline insulin available. Cats can accept this insulin better because it is much more like their own. By comparison, recombinant human insulin is the furthest removed from feline insulin with four amino acid differences, while porcine insulin has three amino acid differences and is structurally closest to canine insulin. The protamine binds to the insulin molecule and slowly releases insulin into the bodily tissue. Most cats can be regulated with only one dose per day, as opposed to the twice-a-day routine many cats require when using synthetic human insulin. Once-a-day insulin injections obviously offer a considerable compliance benefit for pet owners. Veterinarians have reported that there seems to be a smoother regulation of blood glucose curve when using BCP PZI®. This medication is a good choice for cats suspected of having insulin resistance. Some cats, whose condition had previously been difficult to control with other types of insulin, have finally been regulated with BCP PZI®. BCP Veterinary Pharmacy compounds its BCP PZI® with 100% pure bovine insulin crystals that meet all USP monograph specifications and insists upon ongoing analysis to ensure quality control."
 
I don't know of anyone here in the past year and a half that used BCP PZI once a day (and there have been quite a few over the year that have used it). I would be skeptical on that part. As far as the dilution - I'd go with u40, so you can use the u100 syringes and micro dose accurately. Just my preference.
 
I would try the U40 if possible, although the U100 would be fine. Many of the manufacturer sites say once a day; I would go with twice. We know there is no insulin that lasts 24 hours in cats.

Since your vet has already spoken to them about the free sample(right?), maybe they will go ahead with the order if you explain he is ill and tell them you have been using ProZinc and know what to do.
 
I called and left another message for my vet to order the BCP PZI, please, and still no response. I made an appt with my original vet (whom I adored, but Alex didn't, so we went with a visiting vet) and went to talk with her. She ordered the BCP PZI insulin for me. I actually hugged her. In the course of our conversation, she wanted to know about food. While she agreed low-carb was important, she didn't think Fancy Feast had enough protein. She was, however, very impressed with the spreadsheet and the home testing.

And just as I ordered the new stuff, tonight's PMPS was 189. Go figure!
 
Ginny & Alex said:
And just as I ordered the new stuff, tonight's PMPS was 189. Go figure!

Alex has been talking to Thumper...they want to make this as confusing as possible!
 
BCP PZI is on it's way--actually, I have 2 scripts now--from 2 different vets. :lol:

I ordered the u40 insulin and get this, it's only $44 a bottle, plus overnight shipping.
 
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