Felimazole Coated Tablets for Cats

Felimazole treats hyperthyroidism in cats, a condition in which too much thyroid hormone is produced. It will not cure the disease, but will usually control it if given for the rest of the cat's life. treats hyperthyroidism in cats, a condition in which too much thyroid hormone is produced. It will not cure the disease, but will usually control it if given for the rest of the cat's life.

Indication

Felimazole Coated Tablets (methimazole) are indicated for the treatment of hyperthyroidism in cats.

Key Benefits

• Controls the symptoms of hyperthyroidism for an improved quality of life
• Treats hyperthyroidism without surgery or anesthesia
• Available in a dosage size specifically for cats

How It Works

Active Ingredient

Methimazole

View Felimazole package insert.

Dosage

The starting dose of Felimazole Coated Tablets is 2.5 mg administered every 12 hours. Following 3 weeks of treatment, the dose should be titrated to effect based on individual serum total T4 (TT4) levels and clinical response. Dose adjustments should be made in 2.5 mg increments. The maximum total dosage is 20 mg per day divided, not to exceed 10 mg as a single administration.

Hematology, biochemistry, and TT4 should be evaluated prior to initiating treatment and monitored after 3 weeks and 6 weeks of treatment. Thereafter, bloodwork should be monitored every 3 months and the dose adjusted as necessary. Cats receiving doses greater than 10 mg per day should be monitored more frequently.

Administration

Felimazole tablets are given by mouth. The active ingredient is very bitter. Felimazole comes as a coated tablet for ease of administration. Do not break or crush the tablet. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian. Wash hands with soap and water after giving the medication.

Blood levels of thyroid hormone will be checked by your veterinarian at regular intervals, and the dose increased or decreased as needed. The lowest effective dose should be used.

This medication should only be given to the pet for whom it was prescribed.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature 25°C (77°F) with excursions between 15°-30°C (59°-86°F) permitted. Keep away from children and pets. Keep the container tightly closed in order to protect from moisture.

Contraindications

• Do not use in cats with hypersensitivity to methimazole, carbimazole, or polyethylene glycol.
• Do not use in cats with primary liver disease or renal failure.
• Do not use in cats with autoimmune disease.
• Do not use in cats with hematological disorders such as anemia, neutropenia, lymphopenia, thrombocytopenia, or coagulopathies.
• Do not use in pregnant or lactating queens.

Warnings

Methimazole has anti-vitamin K activity and may induce bleeding disorders without evidence of thrombocytopenia.

Human Warnings

• Not for use in humans. Keep out of reach of children. For use in cats only.
• Wash hands with soap and water after administration to avoid exposure to the drug.
• Do not break or crush tablets.
• Wear protective gloves when handling litter, feces, urine, vomit, or broken tablets from treated cats.
• Pregnant or nursing women should wear gloves when handling treated cats or their waste.
• In case of accidental ingestion or overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

Precautions

Use in cats with renal dysfunction should be carefully evaluated. Treatment may unmask underlying kidney disease. Cats receiving treatment should be closely monitored for signs of illness including anorexia, vomiting, facial itching, lethargy, anemia, diarrhea, fever, or lymph node enlargement.

Concurrent use with certain medications may alter effectiveness or increase side effects. Consult your veterinarian before combining with other treatments.

Possible Side Effects

Side effects tend to occur within the first three months of treatment. Contact your veterinarian if you notice any concerning symptoms.

• Changes in appetite
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Skin lesions
• Lethargy
• Abnormal vocalization
• Facial itching or swelling
• Bleeding tendencies
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Anemia or low white blood cell counts

If your pet becomes unusually tired, develops a fever, or shows bruising or bleeding, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Allergic reactions may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. Seek veterinary attention immediately if these symptoms occur.

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