CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Gigi Davidson, Fear Free,
Medication: Selegiline hydrochloride
Medication: Selegiline hydrochloride
Your cat has been prescribed selegiline hydrochloride for the treatment of a behavioral problem of emotional origin, such as depression and/or anxiety. Signs of such disorders may include (but are not limited to) over activity, separation problems, generalized phobia, unsociable behavior, changes in feeding and sleeping patterns, inappropriate urination/defecation and aggression. Selegiline may also be used to treat cognitive dysfunction syndrome (senile dementia) in cats.
Key points:
• Selegiline hydrochloride acts in the brain as an inhibitor of monoamine oxidase (IMAO-B).
• Type of antidepressant drug, used as an aid to the treatment of some behavioral issues in cats.
• It may take 2-6 weeks to see effects when used for cognitive dysfunction.
• This drug should be used in conjunction with behavioral modification techniques.
• Do not use in pregnant or lactating queens.
• Dosage: once daily. Give with or without food.
This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist. Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.
Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Selegiline hydrochloride (Sel-ej-ill-een hi-dro-klor-ride).
Brand name
- Selgian® Film-Coated Tablets for dogs 4 mg, 10 mg and 20 mg (UK).
- Anipryl® Tablets 2 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, and 30 mg (US).
Class of medication
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitor.
Storage
- Store at room temperature (20-25°C/68-77°F) protected from heat, light, and moisture.
Why has my cat been prescribed selegiline hydrochloride?
Your veterinarian has prescribed selegiline hydrochloride for the treatment of a behavioral problem, or for senile dementia. Selegiline hydrochloride is used for the control of clinical signs associated with feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS).
How is the medication given?
Selegiline hydrochloride is given orally (as tablets). It is administered once daily with or without food. It should be used in conjunction with behavior modifying techniques and support should be support from a reputable feline behavior specialist. It may take from 2-6 weeks before you notice any effects from selegiline in cats with CDS.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Selegiline hydrochloride may act on prolactin secretion and so its use is contraindicated in pregnant or lactating queens.
Selegiline interacts with many other drugs. Tell your veterinarian about any medications or supplements that your cat receives at home.
Selegiline hydrochloride interacts with certain sedation and pre-med drugs and so use should be avoided in cats requiring sedation or anesthesia.
Selegiline hydrochloride should not be administered with pethidine, fluoxetine (and other SSRI medications) or phenothiazines.
Selegiline hydrochloride enhances the effects of morphine.
Some cats, with behavioral disorders but no signs of aggression, may become aggressive after treatment. Previously aggressive cats may become more aggressive. It is therefore vital to involve a reputable feline behavior specialist and to work closely with your veterinarian.
How long will my cat need to receive this medication?
A minimum of a two month trial is advised to observe response to treatment. Your veterinarian will advise as to the length of treatment required in the longer term.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused selegiline hydrochloride safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not save selegiline hydrochloride for future use or give to other pets.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not give a double dose. Make sure the dose given does not exceed the total recommended dose in any 24-hour period.
My cat is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Selegiline hydrochloride should only be given to the cat that it has been prescribed for. If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice.
If accidentally consumed by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center.
Will my cat need to be monitored while on selegiline hydrochloride?
No specific tests are required while your cat is taking selegiline hydrochloride.
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on selegiline hydrochloride can be found on the package insert and the following websites:
Europe & UK
- Ceva Selgian® 4 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg film-coated tablets for dogs. Website: www.noahcompendium.co.uk/?id=-474351
US
- Zoetis Anipryl® 2 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, and 30 mg tablets for dogs. Website: www2.zoetisus.com/products/petcare/anipryl
Always follow the recommended dosage and contact your veterinary team or pharmacist if you have any questions regarding your cat’s medication.