Trimeprazine Tartrate with Prednisolone

What is trimeprazine tartrate with prednisolone?

Trimeprazine tartrate with prednisolone (brand names: Temaril-P®, Vanectyl-P®) is a combination antihistamine and corticosteroid used to treat itchiness (due to mostly allergies) or suppress cough. The combination is designed to decrease the amount of prednisone used.

While it is FDA-approved for use in dogs, its use in cats to treat itchiness and coughing is off label (extra label). Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How is this medication given?

• Trimeprazine tartrate with prednisolone combination is given by mouth in the form of a tablet.
• It may be given with or without food.
• If vomiting occurs when dosed on an empty stomach, give future doses with food.
• Do not stop this medication suddenly unless instructed by your veterinarian.
• Do not use in pets that are undergoing allergy testing within the next month, unless otherwise advised by your veterinarian.
• Always give access to water while giving your pet this medication.

This medication will take effect quickly, in about 1 to 2 hours, and improvement in clinical signs should follow.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If prescribed for twice daily dosing and you miss a dose, give it at the next scheduled time, and return to the regular dosing schedule. If prescribed for once daily dosing and you miss a dose, give it when you remember, and return to the regular dosing schedule. Never give your pet two doses at once or give extra doses.

Are there any potential side effects?

Trimeprazine tartrate with prednisolone may cause the following side effects:

• Sleepiness
• Increased drinking, urination, and/or appetite
• Muscle tremors or stiffness
• Restlessness
• Panting

Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving trimeprazine tartrate with prednisolone and contact your veterinarian immediately:

• Infection
• Lack of appetite
• Lack of energy
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Hair loss
• Potbellied appearance
• Weight gain
• Aggression

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.  This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE trimeprazine tartrate with prednisolone in pets that:

• Are allergic to it
• Are undergoing allergy testing within the next month (unless otherwise advised by your veterinarian)
• Have untreated Cushing’s disease
• Have gastrointestinal ulcers

USE WITH CAUTION in pets that:

• Have seizures
• Have diabetes
• Have heart, liver, or kidney disease
• Have active infections
• Are young and growing (this medication can stunt growth)
• Are pregnant or lactating (consider using a milk replacer in these cases)

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Several medications should be used with caution when given with trimeprazine tartrate with prednisolone, including:

• Angiotensin-converting-enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
• Antacids
• Anticholinesterases
• Antidiarrheals
• Aspirin
• Central nervous system depressant agents
• Cisapride
• Cyclophosphamide
• Cyclosporine
• Insulin
• Ketoconazole
• Mitotane
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Paroxetine
• Phenobarbital
• Potassium-depleting diuretics
• Vaccines

Certain medications may interact with trimeprazine tartrate with prednisolone, so be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

This product may also interact with laboratory tests, such as allergy tests, as well as cholesterol, urine glucose, potassium, and thyroid levels.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
• If your pet is on this medication long-term, your veterinarian will perform regular bloodwork and urinalysis to monitor for adverse effects.

At home, monitor for level of sedation and any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.  

How do I store this medication?

• Store this medication at room temperature between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C).
• Protect from light and moisture.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms.