Anti-Nausea Medications
Brands: Cerenia, Metoclopramide
Effective medications for controlling nausea and vomiting in pets.
Used for
- motion sickness
- chemotherapy-induced nausea
- gastroenteritis
How it is given
- Administration
- oral
- Frequency
- once daily
- Duration
- typically 5 days or as prescribed
- Storage
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Pregnancy safety
- caution
Always confirm the exact dose with your veterinarian before giving any medicine.
Typical dose ranges
cat
- Standard
- Cerenia 1 mg/kg orally once daily
dog
- Large dogs
- Cerenia 2 mg/kg orally once daily
- Small dogs
- Cerenia 2 mg/kg orally once daily
- Medium dogs
- Cerenia 2 mg/kg orally once daily
Ranges are reference only. Your vet sets the dose for your pet's weight and condition.
Active ingredients
- Maropitant
- Metoclopramide
Side effects
Common
- lethargy
- diarrhea
Rare
- allergic reactions
Severe
- uncontrolled vomiting
Do not use when
- liver disease
- allergy to ingredients
Interacts with
- antifungal medications
- anticholinergics
Warnings
- Consult a vet before use
- Monitor for allergic reactions
Anti-Nausea Medications questions
What if my pet misses a dose?
Administer it as soon as you remember, but skip it if the next dose is almost due.
Can I give anti-nausea meds with food?
Yes, administering with food can reduce stomach irritation.
Can I use anti-nausea medication for motion sickness?
Yes, these medications are effective for motion sickness.
Are there any natural alternatives?
Ginger may help, but consult your vet for safety and efficacy.
How soon will my pet feel better?
Improvement is usually seen within a few hours of administration.
Full drug detail
Overview
Nausea and vomiting in pets can be distressing for both the animal and the owner. Anti-nausea medications, also known as anti-emetics, are essential in managing these symptoms and improving your pet’s quality of life. This guide explores the common anti-nausea medications used in veterinary medicine, their dosages, side effects, and necessary precautions.
How It Works
Anti-nausea medications work by targeting specific receptors in the brain that trigger the vomiting reflex. For example, Cerenia blocks the action of neurokinin 1 (NK1) receptors, while Metoclopramide works as a dopaminergic antagonist, enhancing gastric motility and reducing nausea.
Uses & Indications
Anti-nausea medications are prescribed for various conditions, including:
- Motion sickness
- Chemotherapy-induced nausea
- Gastroenteritis
Dosage Guidelines
Dogs
- Small Dogs: Cerenia 2 mg/kg orally once daily
- Medium Dogs: Cerenia 2 mg/kg orally once daily
- Large Dogs: Cerenia 2 mg/kg orally once daily
Cats
- Standard: Cerenia 1 mg/kg orally once daily
Administration
These medications are generally administered orally, but injectable forms are available for severe cases.
Side Effects
Common
- Lethargy
- Diarrhea
Rare
- Allergic reactions
Severe
- Uncontrolled vomiting (requires immediate vet attention)
Precautions & Warnings
Before administering any medication, consult your veterinarian, especially if your pet has underlying health conditions like liver disease.
Drug Interactions
Anti-nausea medications may interact with:
- Antifungal medications
- Anticholinergics
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
FAQ
- What if my pet misses a dose? Administer it as soon as you remember, but skip it if the next dose is almost due.
- Can I give anti-nausea meds with food? Yes, administering with food can reduce stomach irritation.