Cisapride

Veterinary Compounding Medication – Customized for Dogs, Cats, and Horses

Quick Reference

Common Uses: Motility Disorders of the Gastrointestinal (GI) Tract

Species: Dogs, Cats, and Horses

Therapeutic Class: Third-Generation Benzamide

Basic Information

Cisapride is a third-generation benzamide that enhances gastrointestinal motility by stimulating serotonin receptors and promoting acetylcholine release. This mechanism increases peristaltic movement throughout the GI tract, aiding in gastric emptying and intestinal motility.

The medication is typically better absorbed with food and should be administered orally about 15 minutes before feeding in small animals for optimal effectiveness.

Uses in Dogs, Cats, and Horses

Dogs and Cats: Cisapride is commonly prescribed to manage gastric-emptying disorders and related motility problems. In cats, it is especially effective for treating chronic constipation and megacolon, where it helps stimulate bowel movement and improve stool passage.

Horses: Used to address post-operative ileus (POI) following abdominal surgery, though its efficacy may vary based on individual and species-specific responses.

Administration

Cisapride can be administered orally or intravenously, depending on the clinical need. Rectal absorption is generally poor and not recommended for therapeutic use. Administer oral doses with food to minimize esophageal irritation and improve drug absorption.

Side Effects

Common gastrointestinal side effects include mild abdominal pain and diarrhea. To prevent esophageal irritation, the medication should always be administered with food or followed by water.

Precautions

Cisapride should not be used in cases where increased GI motility could be harmful, such as mechanical obstruction or gastrointestinal hemorrhage. Dose adjustments are recommended for animals with impaired liver function. Caution is advised in pets with cardiac arrhythmias or other conduction abnormalities.

Drug Interactions

Avoid concurrent use with certain antifungal agents or antibiotics, such as ketoconazole, erythromycin, and fluconazole, due to the risk of severe cardiac arrhythmias. Cisapride may also interact with anticoagulants, enhancing their effects and necessitating careful monitoring.

Overdose

Cisapride generally has a wide margin of safety; however, excessive doses may cause significant gastrointestinal discomfort or central nervous system symptoms. Treatment includes gastrointestinal decontamination (emesis or activated charcoal), supportive care, and continuous cardiac monitoring.

Custom Veterinary Compounding for Cisapride

For precise veterinary compounding of Cisapride and other gastrointestinal motility medications, trust Rock Ridge Pharmacy. Our pharmacy team can help create custom formulations suited for your pet’s unique needs.