Cerenia Dosing Chart: A Comprehensive Guide for Veterinary Professionals
Introduction
Cerenia (maropitant citrate) is a potent and highly effective medication specifically designed to prevent and treat vomiting and nausea in dogs and cats. It is widely used in veterinary practice to manage a variety of conditions that can cause gastrointestinal distress, such as motion sickness, chemotherapy-induced nausea, and postoperative vomiting.
This comprehensive dosing chart provides veterinary professionals with detailed guidelines for administering Cerenia to ensure safe and effective treatment. Understanding the proper dosage and administration methods is crucial for maximizing the benefits of this medication while minimizing potential side effects.
Cerenia Dosing Guide
Dogs
| Dog's Weight (kg) |
Cerenia Dosage (mg) |
| 2-5 |
8 |
| 6-9 |
16 |
| 10-15 |
32 |
| 16-30 |
64 |
| 31-60 |
96 |
| 61-90 |
128 |
| >91 |
160 |
Cats
| Cat's Weight (kg) |
Cerenia Dosage (mg) |
| 2-4 |
4 |
| 5-9 |
8 |
| 10-15 |
16 |
| >15 |
32 |
Administration Guidelines
- Cerenia should be administered orally, once daily, with or without food.
- If the medication is being given to prevent motion sickness, it should be administered 1-2 hours before travel.
- For cats, the tablet can be crushed and mixed with a small amount of wet food to facilitate administration.
- The duration of treatment will vary depending on the underlying condition being managed.
Precautions and Contraindications
- Cerenia should not be used in animals with a known hypersensitivity to the drug.
- Use with caution in animals with liver or kidney disease.
- Cerenia may interact with other medications, such as warfarin and cyclosporine.
- It is not recommended for use in pregnant or lactating animals.
Side Effects
Cerenia is generally well-tolerated, but some side effects may occur, including:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Decreased appetite
- Lethargy
Benefits of Cerenia
-
Highly effective in preventing and treating vomiting and nausea
-
Rapid onset of action within 30 minutes
-
Long-lasting effects for up to 24 hours
-
Easy to administer orally
-
Well-tolerated with minimal side effects
Comparison of Cerenia to Other Anti-Emetics
| Medication |
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
| Cerenia |
Highly effective, rapid onset, long-lasting, well-tolerated |
More expensive than some other options |
| Metoclopramide |
Effective, inexpensive |
May cause drowsiness, muscle spasms |
| Ondansetron |
Effective, rapid onset |
Requires injection, can be expensive |
| Chlorpromazine |
Effective, sedating |
May cause hypotension, arrhythmias |
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Is Cerenia safe for long-term use?
Yes, Cerenia is generally safe for long-term administration when prescribed and monitored by a veterinarian.
-
Can Cerenia be used with other medications?
Yes, but it is important to consult with a veterinarian to ensure there are no potential drug interactions.
-
What if my pet vomits after taking Cerenia?
If vomiting occurs within an hour of administering the medication, another dose can be given. If vomiting continues, contact your veterinarian.
-
What should I do if my pet has an allergic reaction to Cerenia?
If you suspect your pet is experiencing an allergic reaction, seek veterinary attention immediately.
-
Where can I purchase Cerenia?
Cerenia is a prescription medication that can only be obtained from licensed veterinarians.
-
How much does Cerenia cost?
The cost of Cerenia will vary depending on the dosage and quantity prescribed. Consult with your veterinarian for specific pricing information.
Conclusion
Understanding the proper dosing and administration of Cerenia is essential for veterinary professionals to effectively manage vomiting and nausea in dogs and cats. This comprehensive dosing chart provides detailed guidelines and additional information to ensure safe and effective treatment. By adhering to these guidelines, veterinarians can optimize the benefits of Cerenia while minimizing potential risks.
