CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Gigi Davidson, Fear Free,
Medication: Sertraline
Your cat has been prescribed sertraline for the treatment of separation anxiety or another behavioral problem.
ℹ️Key points: • This medication is usually prescribed in conjunction with behavior modification therapy. • There are no licensed veterinary products containing sertraline. Your veterinarian will explain the law relating to prescribing human drugs for use in animals. • Use with caution in cats with epilepsy or a history of seizures. • Remains in the cat’s body system for up to 6 weeks, so caution should be taken with using certain drugs (listed below) during treatment and for up to 6 weeks after treatment has stopped. • Safety for use in pregnant of lactating animals has not been established. • Dosage: as prescribed by your veterinarian.
ℹ️This 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
- Sertraline (ser-trah-leen).
Brand name
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing sertraline.
Class of medication
- Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI).
- Used as an anti-depressant in people.
Storage
- Store at room temperature.
Why has my cat been prescribed sertraline?
Your veterinarian has prescribed sertraline for the treatment of separation anxiety or another behavioral or anxiety related issue. Your veterinarian will also advise you as to behavior modification strategies or may refer you to a veterinary behavior specialist for support.
How is the medication given?
Sertraline is given orally (as tablets or liquid). It is administered once daily. Your veterinarian will advise as to dosing. Tablets can either be administered directly into your pet’s mouth or along with some food. Liquids should only be given in food.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Side-effects may include tiredness, vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite, restlessness, trembling and panting. There is little data available to advise as to interactions with other drugs but use with the following drugs is contraindicated: selegiline, aspirin, diazepam, clomipramine, amitriptyline, cimetidine, cisapride, metoclopramide and amitraz. These drugs should not be used for at least 6 weeks after treatment with sertraline has stopped. Certain flea and tick collars interact with sertraline. Tell your veterinarian if your pet has worn a flea or tick collar in the last two weeks. Discuss your pet’s other medications and supplements with your veterinarian.
How long will my cat need to receive this medication?
Sertraline tablets should be administered according to your veterinarian’s instructions. Your veterinarian may treat for a number of weeks and then reassess as to whether longer treatment is warranted. Treatment may be long term, or even lifelong for some animals. Sertraline treatment should not be stopped suddenly. Your veterinarian will slowly reduce the dosage over time until it is safe to stop giving sertraline.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused sertraline safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not save sertraline 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. Contact your veterinarian if you accidentally overdose with sertraline. Signs of overdose are dose dependent and may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, agitation, sleepiness or even seizures.
My cat is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Sertraline 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 sertraline?
Your pet may need regular veterinary check-ups and laboratory tests whilst on this medication.
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on sertraline clomipramine can be found on the package insert or via your veterinarian.Europe & UK
- There are no veterinary products containing sertraline licensed for use in cats in the UK or Europe.
USA
- There are no veterinary products containing sertraline licensed for use in cats in the US.