Product
Info
Amlodipine
besylate is a drug used to treat high blood pressure in felines. It
is not authorized by the FDA for use in animals, but the medication
is commonly used in the veterinary field as off label use. The
product is available in 2.5mg and 10mg tablets.
What
the product cures
Amlodipine
dilates the blood vessels to allow for better circulation and manage
hypertension in cats.
Pet
Symptoms
Hypertension,
better known as high blood pressure, develops when the blood pressure
in the arteries remains abnormally high. There are two forms of
hypertension; primary and secondary. Primary hypertension is not
caused by other factors, whereas secondary hypertension develops due
to underlying issues. High blood pressure is a serious condition that
can lead to complications such as heart disease and organ damage.
Common
symptoms associated with high blood pressure in cats include;
tremors, repetitive circle movements, vision loss, confusion, pupil
dilation, retinal damage, eye bruises, bloody urine, proteinuria,
nose bleeds, and arrhythmia. Therapy is aimed at lowering blood
pressure and maintaining it at a normal range. Antihypertensive drugs
are the primary choice of treatment for treating the condition.
Pet
Ailments
Primary
hypertension is not very common in felines, with approximately 80% of
diagnosed cases being caused by underlying problems. Common ailments
associated with high blood pressure in cats include; kidney disease,
diabetes, hyperthyroidism, Cushing’s disease, and other hormonal
disorders.
Pets
with Ailments
Relative
info on breed most associated with this ailment
The
exact cause of primary high blood pressure is yet to be known, but
some experts do believe that some breeds are genetically predisposed
to the condition due to the fact that it is common in cats with
kidney failure and hyperthyroidism. Studies have also shown that the
condition is most frequently diagnosed in cats between 4 and 20 years
of age.
Questions
for the vet & product
1.
Is there anything my vet should know before starting my cat on
amlodipine?
Tell
your vet if your cat has been diagnosed with any form of liver or
heart disease. Also let your vet know if your pet is pregnant or
lactating.
2.
What should be done if a dose is missed?
Give
the skipped dose ASAP, unless it is almost time for the next dose, in
which case you can wait until then to give it and continue with the
treatment as scheduled. It is NOT okay to give two doses to make up
for the missed one.
3.
What should I do in case of an overdose?
Get
your pet to the nearest veterinary hospital. Symptoms that may
indicate an amlodipine overdose include; coordination issues,
dizziness, fainting, and slow heartbeat.
4.
Are there any medications contraindicated with the use of Amlodipine
besylate?
Amlodipine
should NOT be given with acetylsalicylic acid, Coumadin, diuretics,
beta blockers, and medication used to treat hypertension. Create a
list with all the medications and supplements that you’re giving or
thinking about giving to your cat and show it to your vet.
5.
What side effects can amlodipine besylate cause?
Stop
treatment and seek immediate veterinary help if any severe side
effects develop such as an allergic reaction (respiratory troubles,
facial swelling, hives, etc.). Less serious side effects are not
common, but may also occur. These include; decreased appetite,
lethargy, weight loss, mucous membrane inflammation, fast heartbeat,
and reduced blood clotting abilities in the body. Contact your vet
for advice if any of these side effects develop in your cat.
How
it Works
Amlodipine
is classified as a calcium channel blocker, which means that it
blocks calcium so that the muscles can relax, causing the blood
vessels to widen and a decrease in blood pressure.
Directions
for use
Amlodipine
besylate is available through prescription only and should be
administered as instructed by your vet. Give medication with meals.
Dosage
and administration: The
recommended dosage is 0.625mg every 24 hours by mouth.
Ingredients
The
product contains 2.5mg or 10mg of Amlodipine besylate depending on
the strength.
Product
Cautions
Tell
your vet of any liver or heart conditions that have ever been
diagnosed in your cat.
Do
NOT use in pregnant or nursing pets.
On
rare occasions, Amlodipine may also be used in canines. If this is
the case, owner should be aware that the body’s ability to clot
normally may be affected.
Stopping
treatment suddenly can lead to health issues.
Missing
a dose can cause the blood pressure to change quickly, which may lead
to vision loss, kidney problems, seizures, or fainting.
Do
NOT use in pets with a known allergy to amlodipine besylate.
Let
your vet know if your pet is taking any of the following;
acetylsalicylic acid, Coumadin, diuretics, beta blockers, and
medication used to treat hypertension.
PHYSICAL
OR CHEMICAL HAZARDS:
Store
where children and pets cannot get a handle of.
Possibly
flammable; do NOT position near heat.
FIRST
AID:
If
swallowed: Refrain
from inducing vomiting, unless told to do so by a health
professional. Never administer anything orally to individuals who are
unconscious. Call poison control for help or seek emergency medical
attention if swallowed.
If
in eyes: Remove
contact lenses and rinse eyes with clean water for no less than 15
minutes. Consult your physician if irritation or other problems
develop.
If
on skin: Use
water and mild soap to wash affected area and apply emollient. See a
doctor if irritation or additional problems occur.
If
inhaled: Place
person where fresh air is available and get medical help right away.
If the person is not breathing, give mouth to mouth resuscitation, or
if the person can breathe on their own, administer oxygen.
Storage
& Disposal
Storage:
Place
in a room temperature area where there is no moisture.
Disposal:
Dispose
of medical waste in conformation with local, state, and federal laws.