Amitriptyline Compounded Transdermal

Description

Amitriptyline Compounded Transdermal is a prescription medication prepared specifically for your pet's individual needs. Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant that veterinarians may prescribe for certain behavioral and other conditions in dogs and cats.

In dogs, amitriptyline may be prescribed for generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, and other behavior-related concerns. In cats, veterinarians may prescribe it for anxiety, excessive grooming, urine spraying, and certain other conditions.

The transdermal formulation provides an alternative method of administration for pets that may be difficult to medicate orally. Because absorption of transdermal medications can vary, this medication should be used only as specifically prescribed and monitored by your veterinarian.

Uses & Benefits

• May be prescribed for certain anxiety and behavior-related conditions
• May be used for generalized or separation anxiety in dogs
• May be prescribed for anxiety, excessive grooming, and urine spraying in cats
• Provides an alternative to oral medication administration
• Useful for pets that are difficult to medicate by mouth
• Available in multiple strengths for individualized veterinary dosing
• Compounded specifically according to a veterinarian's prescription

How It Works

Amitriptyline belongs to a class of medications known as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs).

It primarily affects the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the nervous system, including serotonin and norepinephrine. These chemical messengers play roles in mood, behavior, anxiety, and other nervous system functions.

With a transdermal formulation, the medication is applied to the skin for absorption rather than administered by mouth. Transdermal absorption can vary between animals, so response to treatment should be monitored by your veterinarian.

Indications

For use in dogs and cats as prescribed by a licensed veterinarian.

Amitriptyline may be prescribed for certain behavioral conditions, including anxiety-related disorders. Veterinarians may also prescribe amitriptyline for other conditions based on the individual needs of the animal.

Veterinary use of amitriptyline is generally considered extra-label and should be under veterinary supervision.

Ingredients

Active Ingredients:

Amitriptyline Hydrochloride

Inactive Ingredients:

Refer to pharmacy label for complete inactive ingredient information.

Directions

Use exactly as prescribed by your veterinarian.
Apply the veterinarian-prescribed amount of transdermal medication to a clean, hairless area of the inner ear as directed.
Wear disposable gloves or a finger cot when applying the medication to help prevent accidental human exposure.
Alternate application between ears when appropriate and as directed by your veterinarian.
Do not allow other animals or people to lick or touch the application site immediately after administration.
Wash your hands thoroughly after application, even if gloves were worn.
Follow the dispensing label carefully for the exact amount, frequency, and duration of administration.

Dosage is determined by your veterinarian.

Administer exactly as prescribed by your veterinarian. Follow all dosing and administration instructions provided on the prescription label and by your veterinarian. Do not adjust the dose, frequency, route, or duration of administration unless directed by your veterinarian.

Cautions

• For veterinary use only.
• Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.
• Avoid direct skin contact with the medication. Wear disposable gloves or a finger cot during administration.
• Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes.
• Keep out of reach of children and other animals.
• Do not allow pets to lick the application area.
• An overdose of amitriptyline can be serious. Contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary facility immediately if an overdose or accidental ingestion is suspected.

Possible Side Effects

Possible side effects of amitriptyline may include:

• Drowsiness or sedation / Dry mouth / Constipation / Urinary retention or difficulty urinating / Vomiting / Diarrhea / Changes in appetite / Increased salivation in cats / Incoordination or disorientation / Excitability or behavioral changes / Increased heart rate or abnormal heart rhythm / Local redness or irritation at the transdermal application site

Rare but potentially serious reactions may include seizures, significant changes in heart rhythm, or other neurological or cardiovascular effects.

Contact your veterinarian if side effects are persistent, severe, or concerning.

Precautions

Use with caution in animals with seizure disorders, heart rhythm abnormalities, liver disease, urinary retention, glaucoma, dry eye, diabetes, thyroid disorders, or other significant medical conditions.

Amitriptyline can interact with numerous medications. Tell your veterinarian about all prescription medications, over-the-counter products, supplements, flea and tick products, and behavioral medications your pet is receiving.

Particular caution is needed with other medications that affect serotonin or the central nervous system.

Transdermal absorption may vary between individual animals. Your veterinarian should monitor your pet's response to treatment and determine whether this route of administration is appropriate.

Use in pregnant or nursing animals should be determined by your veterinarian.

This compounded medication is prepared specifically for an individual patient according to a veterinarian's prescription.

This medication is not available for sale or shipment to California and Massachusetts residents.

Storage

Store according to the instructions provided on the pharmacy dispensing label.
Keep the container tightly closed and protected from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
Keep securely out of reach of children and animals.

Disposal

Dispose of unused or expired compounded medication according to your pharmacist's, veterinarian's, or local medication disposal recommendations.
Do not use the medication beyond the beyond-use date provided on the pharmacy label.