Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Maropitant citrate is an approved drug for mitigating vomiting in dogs caused by motion sickness. This medication is administered to address acute nausea and vomiting in dogs, and it can provide relief from chemotherapy-induced nausea. While the injectable variant has been cleared for use in both cats and dogs by the FDA, the tablets have only received approval for usage in dogs at present.
Several veterinarians might prescribe the tablets to treat vomiting in an extra-label or off-label manner, which implies that it is being used in a way that has not been officially approved.
Uses and Dosage
Maropitant citrate is typically administered orally in the form of a tablet, or subcutaneously as an injection directed by a veterinary professional.
To prevent motion sickness, feed the animal a small meal three hours before traveling, followed by maropitant citrate administration one hour later (two hours before travel). Providing the medication with a small meal can aid in preventing vomiting.
Care should be taken not to excessively wrap the pill in food, as this could impede proper drug absorption.
Maropitant citrate is known to have a rapid onset of action, usually within one to two hours.
For preventing chemotherapy-induced vomiting, maropitant citrate should be given prior to the administration of the chemotherapeutic agent.
When administering this medication, one should exercise caution, as topical exposure can trigger an allergic reaction in humans. In the event of such a reaction, wash the affected area with soap and water.
Side Effects
In dogs, direct side effects from this medication are rare, but may include:
- decreased energy level or sedation
- decreased appetite and weight loss
- diarrhea
- incoordination
- excessive drooling
- vomiting or retching
- trembling or muscle tremors
Caution
Usage of this medication is contraindicated in pets that have consumed toxins or are afflicted with gastrointestinal obstruction, as well as in animals younger than eight weeks of age.
Extra care should be taken when administering this drug to pets with pre-existing heart or liver disease, or those that are pregnant or lactating.
Maropitant citrate should be employed with caution when administering the higher, motion-sickness dosing to puppies under 16 weeks of age, as such cases have reported bone marrow suppression.
Form and Strength
Cerenia is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Cerenia tablet:
- 16mg
FAQ
How long does Cerenia last?
Cerenia starts working quickly to prevent or treat your pet’s vomiting. It’s effective for about 24 hours.
Does Cerenia cause loss of appetite in dogs?
Most dogs will maintain a normal appetite while taking maropitant citrate, but a loss of appetite is a possible known side effect.
