Telmisartan
Also known as: Semintra
* **Administration:** Give this medication exactly as prescribed by your veterinarian, usually once a day. The oral liquid is generally well-accepted by most cats and can be given directly into the mouth or mixed with a small amount of food. * **Side Effects:** Watch for mild stomach upset such as vomiting, diarrhea, or regurgitation. These are usually temporary. * **Signs of Low Blood Pressure:** If your pet seems unusually lethargic, weak, or unsteady, contact your vet immediately, as this could be a sign that their blood pressure has dropped too low. * **Consistency:** Do not stop giving this medication abruptly unless instructed by your veterinarian, as it is managing a chronic condition.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Protein-losing nephropathy and hypertension
- Reduction of proteinuria associated with chronic kidney disease
- Treatment of systemic hypertension
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Regurgitation
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Increased ALT activity (rare, transient)
- Hypotension
- Decreased RBC count
- Increased BUN
Cautions & contraindications
- Breeding cats
- Pregnant cats
- Lactating cats
- Cats under 6 months of age
- > **Blood Pressure Monitoring:** Recommended in cats that develop clinical signs referable to hypotension or cats undergoing general anaesthesia. > **Severe Hypertension:** Safety and efficacy for management of systemic hypertension above 200 mmHg has not been investigated. > **Hepatic Monitoring:** Rare increases in ALT activity have been reported, though they typically resolve within a few days of stopping therapy.
Drug interactions
- Amlodipine: Safe concurrent use for hypertension; no clinical evidence of hypotension at recommended doses.
- ACE inhibitors (e.g., benazepril): Avoid concurrent use due to potential for excessive hypotension and renal impairment.
Frequently asked questions
What is Telmisartan used for in pets?
* **Administration:** Give this medication exactly as prescribed by your veterinarian, usually once a day. The oral liquid is generally well-accepted by most cats and can be given directly into the mouth or mixed with a small amount of food. * **Side Effects:** Watch for mild stomach upset such as vomiting, diarrhea, or regurgitation. These are usually temporary. * **Signs of Low Blood Pressure:** If your pet seems unusually lethargic, weak, or unsteady, contact your vet immediately, as this could be a sign that their blood pressure has dropped too low. * **Consistency:** Do not stop giving this medication abruptly unless instructed by your veterinarian, as it is managing a chronic condition.
Is Telmisartan safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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