Cerenia

Indications

Cerenia (maropitant citrate) is an FDA-approved drug for the prevention and treatment of motion sickness-induced vomiting in dogs. It is beneficial in treating sudden episodes of nausea and vomiting in dogs and easing chemotherapy-associated nausea. Cerenia (maropitant citrate) tablets are only sanctioned for use in dogs presently.

Cerenia (maropitant citrate) is a neurokinin (NK1) receptor antagonist that blocks the pharmacological action of substance P in the central nervous system (CNS). Cerenia (maropitant citrate) is the non-proprietary designation for a substituted quinuclidine. The empirical formula is C32H40N2O C6H8O7 H2O, and the molecular weight is 678.81. The chemical name is (2S,3S)-2-benzhydryl-N-(5-tert-butyl-2-methoxybenzyl) quinuclidin-3-amine citrate monohydrate.

Uses and Dosage

Cerenia (maropitant citrate) is recommended for use in dogs 16 weeks and older.

Please contact your veterinarian if you observe severe side effects, if your pet’s condition worsens, or if you suspect an overdose of Cerenia (maropitant citrate). If you have any questions or concerns about the use of Cerenia (maropitant citrate), please consult with your vet or pharmacist.

Side Effects

If your pet continues to vomit despite being treated with Cerenia (maropitant citrate), consult with your veterinarian, or seek immediate veterinary medical attention. Your veterinarian may want to reassess your pet to check for any underlying health issues.

While direct side effects of Cerenia (maropitant citrate) are rare in dogs, they may include:

• Decreased energy levels
• Sedation
• Loss of appetite and weight
• Diarrhea
• Incoordination
• Excessive drooling
• Vomiting or retching
• Trembling
• Muscle tremors

While there is no specific monitoring required for this Cerenia (maropitant citrate), your veterinarian may suggest routine testing depending on your pet’s individual needs, other medications they may be taking, and/or the underlying condition that necessitated Cerenia (maropitant citrate).

Contact your veterinarian if severe side effects are observed, your pet’s condition worsens, or you suspect an overdose. If you have any further questions or concerns regarding the use of Cerenia (maropitant citrate), contact your veterinarian or pharmacist.

Caution

Cerenia (maropitant citrate) is not intended for human use and should be kept out of the reach of children. If accidentally ingested, seek medical advice immediately. Topical exposure may cause localized allergic skin reactions in some individuals, and repeated or prolonged exposure can lead to skin sensitization. After administering Cerenia (maropitant citrate), wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Cerenia (maropitant citrate) is also an ocular irritant, and in case of accidental eye exposure, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. In puppies younger than 11 weeks of age, histological evidence of bone marrow hypoplasia was observed at a higher frequency and greater severity in those treated with Cerenia (maropitant citrate) than in control puppies. In puppies, 16 weeks and older, bone marrow hypoplasia was not observed.

Precautions should be taken when using Cerenia (maropitant citrate) in dogs used for breeding, pregnant or lactating bitches, dogs with gastrointestinal obstruction, or dogs that have ingested toxins. Use caution in dogs with hepatic dysfunction and be careful when using other medications that are highly protein-bound. The concomitant use of Cerenia (maropitant citrate) with other protein-bound drugs has not been studied in dogs. NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs), cardiac, anticonvulsant, and behavioural medications are commonly used protein-bound drugs. The influence of concomitant drugs that may inhibit the metabolism of Cerenia (maropitant citrate) has not been evaluated, and drug compatibility should be monitored in patients requiring adjunctive therapy.

Form and Strength

Cerenia (maropitant citrate) is available in the following forms and strengths:

Cerenia (maropitant citrate) tablet:

• 16mg

Resources:

1. https://www.petmd.com/pet-medication/cerenia-maropitant-citrate
2. https://www.drugs.com/pro/cerenia.html