Cerenia for Dogs
Cerenia is a prescription drug for dogs. It helps dogs suffering from motion sickness or acute vomiting. Vomiting in animals is caused when substance P in their brain has been triggered.
Cerenia’s active ingredient 'Maropitant citrate' controls vomiting by blocking this substance. Cerenia is only prescribed for dogs eight weeks or older after a full evaluation from your vet. There have been reports of pets under eleven weeks developing bone marrow hypoplasia. However, for those 16 weeks and older, there is no evidence of hypoplasia forming. For this reason, your pet should be consistently monitored by your vet.
Cerenia drugs come in tablet and injection form. Injections work faster but are only prescribed by a vet, once a day for five days. Tablets are given for five days to be taken one to two hours before your pet travels or to help alleviate anything that makes them vomit. Treatment differs for different breeds of dogs so please be aware of how they react to their prescribed medication.
Side effects
The following responses to Cerenia is a sign your dog should stop taking the prescribed drug:
- An allergic reaction – severe swelling, difficulty breathing, hives
- A sudden onset of vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, coma
If the following side effects take place, you do not need to stop the medication until you consult with your vet:
- Drooling
- Lethargy
- Drowsiness
Anything that appears abnormal about your dog's behaviour could be a Cerenia influenced side effect. Since all dogs are sensitive to new medication, you should keep your vet informed of your dog’s condition at all times.
Drug Interactions
It is vital to inform your vet of all medications your dog is taking, whether its a prescription drug or over-the-counter. Vitamins, herbal supplements or minerals could cause a reaction when taken alongside Cerenia. The following medications are known to cause interactions; however, this may not be a full list.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs)
- Heart medication tablets
- Anticonvulsants
- Behavioural modification drugs
Precautions
Always follow your vet's instructions when giving your dog this medication. Do not adjust the dose without consulting your vet first. Before giving Cerenia to your pet, please inform the vet of any reported liver or stomach problems and especially if your dog is pregnant.
Pause all feedings for one hour prior to giving Cerenia tablets to help aid absorption.
Missed dose
Do not give two doses at one time as this can cause inflict severe pain upon your animal.
Overdose or toxicity
If your dog has accidentally consumed more than the recommended dose call your vet immediately. If they have overdosed, then you dog may suffer from bloody diarrhea stools, or show no desire to eat or play.
Human contact
Keep Cerenia out reach of children and inappropriate skin contact. If you are not using gloves when applying certain creams, it can damage your skin.
If you get cream in your eyes, make sure you rinse with water for 15 minutes and see your doctor immediately afterwards. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap to ensure no residue is transferred.
Can a dog die from receiving the Cerenia injection?
There are no known deaths from the injection. However, if it was confirmed that your dog died directly as a result of the injection, the drug company and your vet should be contacted immediately.
Does the Cerenia shot cause drowsiness?
Dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea can cause your dog to be drowsy or lethargic. If the dog is very lethargic, give 2 - 3 ounces of Pedialyte every few hours. This will help rehydrate the dog by increasing their electrolytes. If the dog is severely dehydrated then a vet visit may be required.
Can Cerenia prevent a dog from sleeping or eating?
Cerenia is unlikely to prevent a dog from sleeping. The most likely cause is the pain is keeping him awake. It is normal for a dog to lose his appetite temporarily. If they do not regain their appetite then a vet visit will be necessary.
How safe is Cerenia?
Cerenia, when given correctly, is safe for dogs. However, all dogs are different and their immune system may not handle the medication as well as others. Any difference in your dog’s normal disposition should be reported to the vet.
Cerenia is helpful in preventing vomiting and motion sickness. You should monitor your dog's health when taking any medication. If their health does not you should consult your vet's for assistance.