Versican Plus DHPPi

Quick links to important sections

Versican Plus DHPPi

Selected form

Method of action: Vacciness

Treatment option:

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Versican Plus DHPPi

Property Description
Active Ingredients Canine Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza
Form Lyophilisate and Solvent for Suspension for Injection
Pharmacological Class Immunologicals (Veterinary Vaccine)
Common Use Active Immunisation (Prevention) against four major canine viruses
Origin Biologically Derived (Live Attenuated Strains)

Versican Plus DHPPi: Identity and Pharmacological Classification

Versican Plus DHPPi is a distinct veterinary medicinal product classified pharmacologically as an immunological agent, specifically a live viral vaccine. This status indicates its function is strictly prophylactic—designed to establish long-term disease protection. It is formally designated as a quadrivalent vaccine, a feature clinically recognized for its ability to provide comprehensive primary defense against four significant canine viruses simultaneously: Canine Distemper Virus (CDV), Canine Adenovirus Type 2 (CAV-2), Canine Parvovirus Type 2b (CPV-2b), and the Canine Parainfluenza Type 2 Virus (CPiV-2). The vaccine is intended for the active immunisation of healthy dogs and puppies from six weeks of age.

Composition and Physical Form of the Vaccine

The vaccine's core active ingredients consist of live attenuated strains of the four target viruses, which are biologically derived and engineered to stimulate immunity without causing full disease. This multi-antigen composition distinguishes it from less complex dual- or triple-component vaccines. The product is physically supplied in two separate components: a lyophilisate, which is a freeze-dried powder containing the viral strains, and an accompanying solvent. This presentation, requiring reconstitution, is critical for maintaining the maximum viability and potency of the sensitive live attenuated components until the point of administration. The resulting liquid is intended for subcutaneous use only.

General Purpose: Establishing Active Immunity in Dogs

The general purpose of Versican Plus DHPPi is to initiate and maintain long-term protection against these four severe infectious diseases. By challenging the immune system with these specific viral strains, the product facilitates the generation of a robust antibody response and specialized cellular defenses. This establishes sustained active immunity, which is essential for preventing the onset of severe infectious illnesses such as canine distemper, canine parvovirus disease, and respiratory conditions associated with Canine Adenovirus and Canine Parainfluenza Virus. Its typical use scenario involves primary vaccination followed by boosters to maintain high levels of defense in the target canine patient population.

What side effects are possible with Versican Plus DHPPi ?

Adverse Reactions and Official Safety Profile

The documented safety profile for Versican Plus DHPPi is formally classified in regulatory documents according to the frequency of reported adverse events. These events are grouped into systemic reactions, immune system disorders, and reactions at the administration site.

Common reactions, meaning they occur in more than 1 but less than 10 animals per 100 treated, include a transient swelling at the injection site. This local reaction may be warm or reddened, but is generally expected to spontaneously resolve or significantly diminish within 14 days of vaccination.

Reactions classified as rare, occurring in less than 1 animal per 1,000 treated, involve systemic effects such as anorexia (decreased appetite) and reduced activity. The regulatory safety profile also documents hypersensitivity reactions in this rare category, which can include acute, severe manifestations like anaphylaxis, circulatory shock, collapse, and signs such as vomiting or diarrhoea. These hypersensitivity reactions are formally designated as serious adverse reactions due to their potential to become life-threatening.

Very rare effects, reported in less than 1 animal per 10,000 treated, include general malaise, hyperthermia (fever), and lethargy. The safety constraints specify that the vaccine must be administered only to healthy animals. Furthermore, safety has not been established during pregnancy and lactation, and use is not recommended during these periods. A characteristic of the live attenuated strains is the potential for viral shedding by vaccinated dogs for a limited period.

Overdose and Emergency Response

The official regulatory profile for Versican Plus DHPPi overdose is defined by the high margin of safety documented in authorized studies. Regulatory documents indicate that the administration of a substantial overdose volume, specifically tested up to ten times the standard dose, resulted in no adverse reactions beyond those already known and documented in routine safety information. This finding confirms that unique, severe, or life-threatening clinical manifestations were not observed following this level of high exposure.

The clinical signs documented in the regulatory reports were limited to transient and mild events, which are categorized as routine adverse reactions. These effects may include localized reactions such as pain or a small, self-limiting nodule at the injection site, or mild systemic signs like temporary lethargy or a mild elevation in temperature. Crucially, the mild effects observed were reported to subside spontaneously without requiring any therapeutic intervention.

Official guidance on emergency actions is established by the regulatory statement that no special action is required in the event of an overdose. Furthermore, regulatory data confirms that specific supportive measures, antidote administration, or continuous monitoring requirements are not mandated for the management of an overdose. The official regulatory position, therefore, does not list conditions that trigger the need for urgent medical help specifically due to a high-volume administration of the vaccine.

Therapeutic Uses of Versican Plus DHPPi

What Versican Plus DHPPi Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

This therapeutic approach is relevant for symptom management in situations involving acute or disruptive symptom patterns. The medication is considered relevant in contexts marked by increased discomfort or tension, and may help address symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive. The primary use is relevant for easing symptoms that interfere with daily functioning and is commonly applied in scenarios where symptoms escalate temporarily.

This therapeutic approach is commonly used in situations involving certain distressing symptoms and applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed. It provides support that helps ease the overall symptom burden, and may assist with maintaining functional stability when symptoms create noticeable physiological strain. It is relevant for managing symptoms related to physical discomfort, systemic imbalance, and inflammatory or irritative states. It generally contributes to easing the overall symptom load during periods of heightened symptoms and may help patients cope more steadily with symptom fluctuations.


Quick Fact: Relief for Physiological Strain


Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Scope

The official regulatory documents for Versican Plus DHPPi establish specific population criteria for its use as a veterinary vaccine for dogs. The product is intended for the active immunisation of healthy puppies and dogs.

Category Eligibility Rule
Age (Minimum) Puppies from six weeks of age may begin the primary vaccination course.
Health Status The vaccine is restricted to use only in healthy animals; a good immune response relies on a fully competent immune system. Immunocompetence may be compromised by factors like poor health or concurrent therapy.
Contraindications None are formally listed in the regulatory section 4.3; however, animals with a known hypersensitivity to the vaccine's components must not receive it.
Pregnancy The vaccine can be used during the second and third stages of pregnancy. Use during the early stage of pregnancy is not recommended because safety has not been established.
Lactation Use during lactation is not recommended as safety of the product has not been investigated.

The official eligibility profile is defined by requiring a suitable health status and minimum age. Exclusionary criteria are structured around conditional use, classifying early pregnancy and lactation as populations where use is not established, rather than listing absolute contraindications.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

This section details only the officially documented interaction information for the live viral vaccine, Versican Plus DHPPi, as recorded in government regulatory documents.

Interaction scope

Property Details (Strictly from Regulatory Documents)
Medicinal product categories with documented interactions: Concurrent drug therapy (category of products that may compromise immunocompetence); Other veterinary medicinal products (category subject to mixing restrictions).
Specific interacting medicines (if explicitly listed): Versiguard Rabies (approved for co-administration/mixing); Versican Plus L4 (approved for co-administration/mixing).
Mechanistic basis of interactions (only if stated in label): Pharmacodynamic Interference with Immunocompetence (concurrent drug therapy affects the animal's ability to respond); Physical Incompatibility (prohibition on mixing due to lack of compatibility data).
Timing-based interaction rules (if applicable): Mandatory simultaneous co-administration is approved for the two specific products listed above.
Interaction-related restrictions: Must not be mixed with any veterinary medicinal product other than Versiguard Rabies or Versican Plus L4.

Interaction classifications (high-level)

Classification Details (Strictly from Regulatory Documents)
Interaction severity classification (as defined in official documents): Formal Prohibition / Incompatibility (regarding mixing); Use-with-Caution Interaction (regarding concurrent drug therapy).
Regulatory basis (EMA / FDA / etc.): European Medicines Agency (EMA) and national Veterinary Medicines Directorates Summaries of Product Characteristics (SmPC).

Resulting interaction structure

Official interaction statements:

  • Concurrent drug therapy is a factor officially documented to compromise the recipient animal's immunocompetence, which is essential for a successful immune response to the vaccine.
  • The product must not be mixed with any veterinary medicinal product beyond the two specified due to the absence of supporting compatibility studies documented in the regulatory label.
  • No information is available in the regulatory documents on the safety and efficacy of use with any other veterinary medicinal product besides those approved for co-administration.

Connection to the overall interaction profile (2–4 sentences): The official regulatory interaction profile is defined by mandatory constraints related to physical co-administration and a documented pharmacodynamic interaction risk. The regulatory sources explicitly prohibit mixing with most products based on lack of compatibility data, while listing specific products that are approved for combination. This structure is consistent with the product’s nature as an immunological agent.

Mechanism of Action

Versican Plus DHPPi functions as a multi-component vaccine, initiating active immunity through the presentation of attenuated live viruses: Canine Distemper Virus (CDV), Canine Adenovirus Type 2 (CAV-2), Canine Parvovirus Type 2b (CPV-2b), and Canine Parainfluenza Virus Type 2 (CPiV-2).

The live, modified viral components serve as biological targets for the host Antigen-Presenting Cells (APCs), primarily dendritic cells. Following uptake, the viral antigens are processed and presented via Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules, engaging T-lymphocytes (CD4+ helper and CD8+ cytotoxic) and stimulating B-lymphocytes.

This T-cell-dependent cellular and humoral cascade results in the differentiation of B-cells into plasma cells, mediating the synthesis and secretion of specific neutralizing antibodies (immunoglobulins). Simultaneously, the process establishes long-lived memory B and T cells. This physiological modulation of the immune system ensures a robust secondary response upon subsequent encounter with the corresponding wild-type viral pathogens, enabling rapid pathogen neutralization and cellular clearance.

Dosage and Administration Information

How Versican Plus DHPPi is Used: Official Administration Guidelines

The usage of Versican Plus DHPPi follows a specific protocol concerning its preparation, route, and frequency. This product is prepared from a lyophilisate (freeze-dried component) that must be aseptically reconstituted using the accompanying solvent immediately prior to administration. The final mixture is a suspension for injection and must be administered without delay to maintain the viability of the live attenuated components.

Administration and Dosing

The method of delivery for this vaccine is exclusively by subcutaneous use (under the skin). The standardized dose, regardless of the patient's size or age, is one single dose equivalent to 1 ml of the reconstituted suspension.

Usage Protocol Schedule and Frequency
Primary Vaccination Two doses are required, administered 3–4 weeks apart.
Start Age Puppies can begin the primary course from six weeks of age.
Core Booster Frequency A single 1 ml dose is given every three years for the Canine Distemper, Adenovirus, and Parvovirus components.
Parainfluenza Booster The Parainfluenza component typically requires annual re-vaccination.

Administration-related constraints require that the vaccine is not mixed with other medicinal products unless compatibility is explicitly approved on the label. The product use also includes administration during the second and third stages of pregnancy.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Versican Plus DHPPi: Overview of Research Evidence

This section summarizes the official research record used to evaluate the product, focusing on the types of studies conducted, the outcomes examined, and what remains uncertain, based on authoritative regulatory documents and peer-reviewed scientific literature. Research findings describe group patterns, not personal outcomes.


Evidence for Protection Against Core Viral Diseases (Distemper, Adenovirus Type 1, and Parvovirus)

The most comprehensive research has evaluated the product regarding the core diseases (Canine Distemper Virus, Canine Adenovirus Type 1, and Canine Parvovirus). The primary research design used was laboratory challenge studies, which are used to assess the durability of the immunological response. These studies monitored outcomes related to the occurrence of severe clinical signs, the occurrence of mortality, and immune response through antibody titers (seroconversion).

Laboratory challenge studies described measurements related to immunological status against subsequent exposure to virulent virus strains, with observation periods extending to a long-term observation period of up to three years post-vaccination course. Field studies reported measurements of seroconversion (antibody presence) occurring at the expected time points following the primary vaccination schedule.


Research Gaps and Areas of Uncertainty

Research provides context but not individual predictions, and evidence highlights what is known — and what is still uncertain.

A key limitation relates to the duration of response for the respiratory components. While the core components have a three-year observation period confirmed by challenge studies, the response status for the Canine Parainfluenza component is limited to a one-year duration in the official regulatory record.

Furthermore, for the Canine Adenovirus Type 2 (CAV-2) component, the three-year duration is based on sustained antibody levels (serology) and was not confirmed using the virulent challenge study method utilized for the other core viruses. Data for certain long-term outcomes for all components beyond the established observation periods remain insufficient.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Versican Plus DHPPi (FAQ)

Q: Why is the drug name 'DHPPi' so long—what does it stand for?

According to the official product information, the letters in the name are abbreviations for the four viral components it targets. D stands for Canine Distemper Virus, H is for Canine Adenovirus Type 2 (Hepatitis), P is for Canine Parvovirus, and Pi represents the Canine Parainfluenza Virus.

Q: Do I need to get Versican Plus DHPPi every year?

The required frequency is determined by the specific components in the product. The official re-vaccination schedule describes a single dose every three years for the Distemper, Adenovirus, and Parvovirus components. In contrast, the Parainfluenza component is typically given annually.

Q: How quickly does Versican Plus DHPPi start working after it's administered?

The official documentation describes the onset of immunity as varying by component. Immunological onset against Canine Distemper Virus (CDV), Canine Adenovirus (CAV), and Canine Parvovirus (CPV) is noted three weeks after the first dose. The onset against the Parainfluenza (CPiV) component is noted three weeks following the completion of the primary course (the second dose).

Q: What percentage of users experience side effects with Versican Plus DHPPi?

Official regulatory documents categorize reported side effects by frequency rather than providing a single total percentage. For example, 'common' reactions are defined as occurring in more than 1 but less than 10 individuals per 100 treated. Information on rare or very rare effects is defined using different numerical thresholds.

Q: Does Versican Plus DHPPi interact with antibiotics?

Regulatory information does not explicitly list antibiotics as a specific interacting product. The official documentation notes that concurrent drug therapy, which can include various medications, is a factor that may compromise the ability of the immune system to respond effectively to the vaccine.

Q: Can Versican Plus DHPPi be used at the same time as other preventive treatments?

Mixing this product with other medicines is generally prohibited by regulatory documents unless the combination is explicitly approved on the label. Only Versiguard Rabies and Versican Plus L4 are approved for co-administration. For using this product before or after any other product, official guidance notes that a lack of data requires a case-by-case assessment.

Q: Is there a list of specific medications that should not be taken with Versican Plus DHPPi?

Regulatory records prohibit the physical mixing of this vaccine with any product other than the two approved combinations due to a lack of documented compatibility studies. While official guidance mentions that concurrent drug therapy can compromise the immune response, there is no comprehensive, prohibited list of non-mixing medications provided.

Q: What happens if Versican Plus DHPPi is given too close to another product?

Official warnings regarding administration proximity focus on the risk of compromise to the immune system. Concurrent drug therapy can compromise the recipient’s immune response, which is essential for the vaccine to provide effective protection. Regulatory documents do not explicitly list the negative consequences of unapproved timing delays.

Q: Can Versican Plus DHPPi be administered to older individuals?

The official documentation indicates the product is intended for the active immunisation of 'healthy puppies and dogs'. There is no official constraint or limitation based on maximum age, provided the individual is determined to be in good overall health.

Q: Is Versican Plus DHPPi suitable for all breeds or types of population?

Official documentation indicates the product is suitable for the canine species. The regulatory documentation does not specify any breed-specific suitability or limitations regarding the use of the product.

Q: Where can I find the official regulatory documents about Versican Plus DHPPi?

Official regulatory information, such as the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) and the European Public Assessment Reports (EPAR), is publicly available. These documents can typically be found on the official website of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and national regulatory bodies like the UK's Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD).

Q: Are there ongoing studies tracking the long-term safety of Versican Plus DHPPi?

Regulatory systems require that safety is continuously monitored even after a product is approved. This is accomplished via a process called pharmacovigilance, which involves the mandatory reporting of any adverse events. While no specific ongoing long-term study is listed, safety tracking is a continuous regulatory requirement.

Q: Why do some people report a lack of appetite after receiving Versican Plus DHPPi?

Anorexia, or a decreased appetite, is listed in regulatory documents as a rare systemic adverse reaction. The documentation confirms this as a possible reaction but does not provide a specific medical explanation for why it may occur in some individuals.

Q: Is the protection guaranteed for all individuals who receive Versican Plus DHPPi?

No immunological product can guarantee complete protection for every individual. Regulatory documents indicate that establishing a good immune response is reliant on a fully competent immune system, which can be compromised by factors like poor health or concurrent therapy.

Q: Can Versican Plus DHPPi be administered by anyone, or does it require a professional?

In many regulatory jurisdictions, this product is legally classified as a Prescription Only Medicine – Veterinarian (POM-V). This classification means its supply and administration are legally subject to veterinary prescription and veterinary administration.

Q: Why are there different versions of Versican Plus products, and where does DHPPi fit in?

Versican Plus DHPPi is designated as a quadrivalent, or four-component, vaccine. Regulatory documents confirm it was developed as part of a larger combination range. This allows the product line to offer different combinations of components to target specific disease risks as needed.

Q: Does regulatory guidance limit who can market Versican Plus DHPPi?

Yes. Only the named Marketing Authorisation Holder (MAH) and its authorized representatives are permitted to market the product according to regulatory records. This ensures accountability for the product's safety and efficacy claims.

Q: Is it true that Versican Plus DHPPi uses modern recombinant technology?

Regulatory documents state that the active ingredients consist of live attenuated strains of the four target viruses, which is a type of biological derivation. The specific term 'recombinant technology' is not used in the official composition description.

Q: What are the official clinical definitions of the diseases Versican Plus DHPPi targets?

Official regulatory summaries describe the clinical signs of the diseases targeted by the vaccine. These descriptions include symptoms like a runny nose, cough, and fever associated with canine distemper, and lethargy, vomiting, and bloody diarrhea associated with canine parvovirus in puppies.

Q: What is the regulatory body's classification of Versican Plus DHPPi (e.g., Prescription only)?

The product's legal supply status is formally classified in regulatory records. In many jurisdictions, it is classified as a Prescription Only Medicine – Veterinarian (POM-V), meaning it requires a veterinary prescription for its legal use.

Q: Where to find published summaries of the clinical trial data for Versican Plus DHPPi?

Summaries of the clinical trial data that were used to secure regulatory approval are often included in the European Public Assessment Report (EPAR). These summaries are typically available for public review on the European Medicines Agency (EMA) website.

Q: Are there any known geographical restrictions or special warnings for Versican Plus DHPPi?

Official warnings list specific precautions, which function as special warnings. Official guidance states the product is for use only in healthy animals. Another documented warning is the potential for viral shedding by vaccinated individuals for a limited period.

How should Versican Plus DHPPi be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Versican Plus DHPPi

The storage and disposal requirements for Versican Plus DHPPi are strictly defined by regulatory labeling to maintain product stability and ensure environmental safety.

Official Storage Conditions

Versican Plus DHPPi must be stored refrigerated at a temperature range of 2 °C to 8 °C, and it is required to not freeze the product. Protection from light is necessary, and the vials should be kept in the outer carton. The product has a labeled shelf life of 2 years when stored correctly.

Handling and Stability

Once the vaccine is reconstituted, it must be used immediately, as the live components are highly unstable after mixing. For safety, the product must be kept out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Requirements

Unused product or waste material must be disposed of in accordance with local regulations. It is specifically required to not dispose of the vaccine via wastewater or general household waste; disposal should follow national collection systems or take-back schemes.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

Available in countries:

Equivalent of Versican Plus DHPPi  found in:

A-Z Index: