Indications
Cerenia is a drug used to prevent and treat vomiting in dogs and cats. The drug, also known by its generic name maropitant citrate, is specifically formulated for animal use. Cerenia works by targeting the receptors in the brain that are responsible for the sensation of nausea. This means that it blocks signals from entering the brain which causes dogs and cats to vomit.
Maropitant is a drug that has gained wide acceptance in the medical community due to its ability to block the effects of substance P in the central nervous system (CNS). Substance P is a neurokinin (NK1) receptor agonist, and maropitant is an antagonist that inhibits its pharmacological action.
Maropitant Citrate is a veterinary antiemetic and has been found to be effective in treating and preventing vomiting caused by motion sickness. Cerenia is administered orally or intravenously and can be used for both acute and chronic vomiting.
Uses and Dosage
Cerenia (Maropitant Citrate) comes in the form of tablets. The tablets are indicated for the prevention of acute vomiting, the prevention of vomiting due to motion sickness, and the prevention of nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy.
The recommended dosages of Cerenia (Maropitant Citrate) depend on the condition being treated.
- For the prevention or treatment of acute vomiting, the recommended dose is 2 mg/kg, given once daily for up to 14 days.
- For the prevention of vomiting due to motion sickness, the recommended dose is 8 mg/kg, given once daily for a maximum of two consecutive days.
- For the prevention of nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy, the recommended dose is 1 mg/kg, given once daily.
Side Effects
Direct Side Effects of Cerenia Include:
- Decreased energy level (lethargy) or sedation
- Decreased appetite and weight loss
- Diarrhea
- Incoordination
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting or retching
- Trembling or muscle tremors
Form and Strength
Cerenia (Maropitant Citrate) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Cerenia: Tablet
- 16 mg
Caution
- Use with caution in cats and dogs with hepatic dysfunction.
- Do not use it in animals with a known hypersensitivity to Cerenia.
- Do not use it in animals with a history of seizures.
- Do not use it in pregnant or lactating animals.
- Avoid contact with eyes.
- Use with caution in animals with cardiovascular disease, as it can cause hypotension.
- Use with caution in animals with renal disease.
- Use with caution in animals with diabetes mellitus.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How quickly does Cerenia work in dogs?
Cerenia works on average within one hour of administration. Drooling, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and sedation may be seen at higher doses. Pain at site of injection is seen in some patients.
When should you not give Cerenia?
Cerenia should absolutely NOT be given to puppies under 16 weeks old or dogs that have known liver conditions. In addition, the medication should be used with caution in pets that have heart or liver disease.
How long is Cerenia effective?
The duration of the effect is approximately 24 hours and, therefore, tablets can be given the night before administration of an agent that may cause emesis.
How long is Cerenia effective?
For the prevention of acute vomiting, Cerenia is a safe and effective treatment of acute vomiting and can be given once a day for up to five consecutive days.
REVIEWS