Cisapride for Dogs

Cisapride is a drug in the benzamide class, and while it aids in treating gastrointestinal tract disorders, it does not increase gastric acid secretion. The drug is used in treatment of many animals, including dogs, for speeding up the movement of food through the digestive tract.

  1. Use in Dogs

    • Cisapride is a benzamide drug used in both humans and animals for motility enhancement. In dogs, cisapride is most commonly used in the treatment of gastric emptying disorders, intestinal transit and numerous other motility issues. It does so by speeding up the emptying of the stomach by pushing food quickly through the intestines. It typically works better when given with food, and, in smaller animals, it is best to administer cisapride approximately 15 minutes before feeding.

    Storage Recommendations

    • Cisapride is best stored in cool, dry places at room temperature, away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not store it in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in other potentially wet places.

    Potential Side Effects

    • The most common side effects of Cisapride in dogs are abdominal pain and diarrhea. Consult with your veterinarian if your dog experiences either of these upon taking Cisapride. Cisapride can interact negatively with other drugs and may also affect the absorption of drugs taken orally.

    Precautions

    • There are several precatuions dog owners should take when administering Cisapride to their dogs. For instance, the dose of Cisapride given should be reduced in animals with decreased liver function, while animals with heart problems will require additional supervision upon taking Cisapride. Also, keep in mind that high-level doses of Cisapride have been found to decrease fertility in certain animals. Therefore, it should only be given to pregnant/lactating dogs if approved by a veterinarian.

    Potential Overdose

    • Extremely high levels of Cisapride can cause trouble breathing and other forms of distress. Should your dog exhibit signs of Cisapride overdose, which include gastrointestinal distress, trouble breathing or central nervous system impairment, get him to a veterinarian as soon as possible.