CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Polly Frowde,
Medication: Cisapride
Medication: Cisapride
Your cat has been prescribed cisapride for the treatment of a gastrointestinal motility problem.
Key points:
• There are no licensed veterinary products containing cisapride. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human drug to your pet which contains cisapride. Your veterinarian will explain off-license prescribing to you.
• Dosage: two to three times daily, as directed by your veterinarian.
* This drug has been withdrawn from use in human patients due to rare side-effects resulting in serious heart problems. Although similar effects have not been documented in pets, this drug should be used with care in pets with pre-existing heart problems.
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
- Cisapride (siss-ah-priyd).
Brand name
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing cisapride.
Class of medication
- Prokinetic agent (enhances gastrointestinal motility/movement).
Storage
- Store at room temperature.
Why has my cat been prescribed cisapride?
Your veterinarian has prescribed cisapride for the treatment of a gastrointestinal motility problem. Conditions that may be treated with cisapride include esophageal reflux, gastric stasis and megacolon.
How is the medication given?
Cisapride is given orally (as tablets). It is important to follow dosing guidelines carefully. Wear gloves when handling cisapride.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Reported side-effects include salivation (drooling), lip smacking, vomiting, abdominal cramps, flatulence and diarrhea. Contact your veterinarian if you feel your pet has any side-effects from this medication.
Cisapride may interact with certain drugs and use with the following drugs should be avoided wherever possible: opioids, erythromycin, clarithromycin, troleandomycin, itraconazole, ketoconazole, fluconazole, miconazole, aspirin, acetaminophen, diazepam and ethanol.
Use with caution in animals with heart disease, particularly those with arrhythmias.
How long will my cat need to receive this medication?
Cisapride tablets should be administered according to your veterinarian’s instructions.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused cisapride safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not 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 next dose is separated by at least 6 hours.
If you accidentally give an extra dose, contact your veterinarian, or if you have any other concerns.
My cat is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice before giving further cisapride.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Cisapride 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 immediately.
Will my cat need to be monitored while on cisapride?
Your cat will need regular checkups whilst they are on this medication.
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on cisapride can be found on the package insert or via your veterinarian.
Europe & UK
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing cisapride available in the UK and Europe.
US
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing cisapride available in the US.
Always follow the recommended dosage and contact your veterinary team or pharmacist if you have any questions regarding your cat’s medication.