Metaflam

Description

Drug Uses
Metaflam is a non–steroidal antiinflammatory compound of the oxicam group which acts by inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis.

How Taken

Initial treatment is a single dose of 0.2 mg metaflam/kg body weight on the first day. Treatment is to be continued once daily by oral administration (at 24–hour intervals) at a maintenance dose of 0.1 mg metaflam body weight. Each chewable contains 2.5 mg metaflam, which corresponds to the daily maintenance dose for a 25 kg body weight dog respectively. Each chewable tablet can be halved for accurate dosing according to the individual body weight of the animal. Metaflam chewable tablets can be administered with or without food.
The use of metaflam oral suspension for dogs may be considered for an even more precise dosing. For dogs weighing less than 20 kg the use of Metaflam Oral Suspension is recommended.

A clinical response is usually seen within 3–4 days. Treatment should be discontinued after 10 days at the latest if no clinical improvement is apparent.

Warnings/Precautions

Metaflam should not be administered concurrently with steroidal or other non–steroidal anti–inflammatory drugs, aminoglycoside antibiotics or anti–coagulant agents.

Pre–treatment with anti–inflammatory drugs may result in additional or increased adverse effects and accordingly a treatment free period with such drugs should be observed for at least 24 hours before commencement with metaflam. The treatment free period, however, should take into account the pharmacokinetic properties of the drugs used previously.

Avoid use in dehydrated, hypovolaemic or hypotensive animals as there is potential risk of increased renal toxicity.

Missed Dose
Metaflam is taken as needed, so you are not likely to miss a dose.

Possible Side Effects

Typical adverse drug reactions of NSAIDs such as loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea, faecal occult blood, letharthy and renal failure have occasionally been reported. In very rare cases haemorrhagic diarrhoea, haematemesis, gastrointestinal ulceration and elevated liver enzymes have been reported. These side effects occur generally within the first treatment week and are in most cases transient and disappear following termination of the treatment but in very rare cases may be serious or fatal.

If adverse reactions occur, treatment should be discontinued and the advice of a veterinarian should be sought.

Storage
Keep Metaflam out of the reach of children. Store below 30o C. Protect from direct sunlight.

Overdose
In case of overdose, symptomatic treatment should be initiated.

More Information
Metaflam chewable tablets are palatable and willingly consumed by most dogs when offered by the owner. Therefore, they may be fed by hand or placed on food. Care should be taken to ensure that the dog consumes the complete dose.

Disclaimer This is only general information, it does not cover all directions, drug integrations or precautions. You should not rely on it for any purpose, it does not contain any specific instructions for a particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information. We`re not responsible for any damage.