Yunnan Baiyao

What is Yunnan Baiyao?

Yunnan Baiyao is a Chinese herb blend used to control bleeding in many species, including dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, and horses. It can be used supportively in dogs with hemangiosarcoma. In the U.S., Yunnan Baiyo is recognized as a herbal supplement.

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

Your veterinarian is the best source of information about the safety of non-drug health supplements in pets. Just because a supplement 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 Yunnan Baiyao?

• Yunnan Baiyao is given orally (by mouth) and comes as capsules or powder. Capsules may be opened and sprinkled on the bleeding site. 
• This supplement may be given with or without food.
• Follow your veterinarian’s directions and use supplements according to their label.
• Ideally, give this supplement at the same time daily.
• Ensure access to fresh, clean drinking water.
• Wash hands after use
• Do not handle if you have a known sensitivity to this supplement.

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 Yunnan Baiyao?

Yunnan Baiyao may cause the following side effects:

• Mild gastrointestinal (GI) side effects, such as vomiting and diarrhea
• Rash
• Chest pain
• Itchiness
• Flatulence

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 drug/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 drug/supplement?

DO NOT USE Yunnan Baiyao in:

• Pets who are allergic to it

USE WITH CAUTION in pets that:

• Have a history of clotting problems or are at risk of clotting problems
• Are pregnant
• Have liver disease (Yunnan Baiyao may increase liver enzymes)

Contact your veterinarian if your animal's condition does not improve or worsens despite this treatment.

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

The following medications should be used with caution when given with Yunnan Baiyao:

• Anticoagulants (e.g., rivaroxaban, warfarin)
• Antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin, clopidogrel)
• Heparin and low molecular weight Heparins (e.g., enoxaparin)
• NSAIDs (e.g., carprofen, meloxicam, phenylbutazone, robenacoxib)
• Pentoxifyllin
• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) such as fluoxetine

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this supplement?

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

How do I store Yunnan Baiyao?

• Store in a cool, dry area in a tightly sealed container to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Store in the original container.
• Keep out of reach of children.

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.