Life-Saving Breakthrough: Minister Steps In to Rescue Pets from Cushing’s Crisis
Johannesburg, South Africa, August 2025 – Pet owners in South Africa can now rest easy, as a recent decision by a Ministerial Appeal Committee ensures continued access to Trilostane, a vital medication for pets suffering from Cushing’s disease. This outcome allows V-Tech, an Animal Health Company that specialise in the compounding of veterinary medicines, to continue compounding and selling Trilostane, which is the only effective treatment for this debilitating condition in animals.
Cushing’s disease is caused by an overactive adrenal gland and requires consistent management with Trilostane to help affected dogs, cats, and horses lead healthy and comfortable lives.
There had been uncertainty regarding Trilostane’s availability after the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) had previously blocked new batches. V-Tech had imported Trilostane with SAHPRA’s knowledge for over five years, and the medication has been safely used for more than a decade.
Dr. Johan Oosthuyse, CEO of V-Tech, had highlighted the severe impact of a potential shortage, stating that without treatment, pets would suffer unnecessary pain and their lives could be at risk.
After V-Tech appealed to the Minister of Health, Dr. Motshaledi, a Ministerial Appeal Committee was appointed. This committee confirmed on July 18, 2025, that V-Tech has the explicit right to prepare and sell Trilostane.
“We are incredibly relieved by this ruling, which prioritises the well-being of thousands of pets in South Africa,” said Dr. Oosthuyse. “Pets are family, and they deserve access to this life-saving medication. We will continue our commitment to the veterinary community and the animals they care for”. He also stated that this decision directly affirms V-Tech’s ability to provide essential, life-saving medication.
This decision means that veterinarians can confidently continue to prescribe Trilostane, supplied by V-Tech, ensuring uninterrupted management of Cushing’s disease in their patients.