Introduction
When it comes to healthcare for pets, new drugs and treatments are constantly being developed to better address specific ailments. One such development is Felanorm, the first generic methimazole oral solution for the treatment of hyperthyroidism in cats. This drug has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and contains the same active ingredient as the approved brand name drug product, Felimazole Coated Tablets. In this article, we will provide all the necessary information regarding Felanorm, including its dosing, administration, and precautions.
What is Felanorm?
Felanorm is an oral solution specifically designed to treat hyperthyroidism in cats. This disease occurs when the cat’s thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, causing a range of symptoms such as weight loss, increased activity, and increased thirst. The active ingredient in Felanorm is methimazole, which works by reducing the amount of thyroid hormone produced by the thyroid gland.
How is Felanorm administered?
Felanorm is supplied in 30 mL or 100 mL bottles with a 1 mL dosing syringe. It is dosed in 2.5 mg increments, every 12 hours. The maximum total dosage is 20 mg per day divided, not to exceed 10 mg as a single administration. Dose adjustments should be made in 2.5 mg increments. Felanorm is only available by prescription from a licensed veterinarian because professional veterinary expertise is needed to diagnose hyperthyroidism in cats and to determine whether Felanorm is an appropriate treatment.
What precautions should be taken when administering Felanorm?
People administering Felanorm should wear protective single-use, impermeable (e.g., latex or nitrile) gloves when administering the solution and should wash their hands with soap and water after administration to avoid exposure to the drug. It is important to follow the dosage and administration instructions precisely, as overdose can cause serious side effects. Additionally, continued veterinary monitoring is needed to ensure that the dose continues to be appropriate to control the cat’s hyperthyroidism, as this disease can progress over time.
What are the benefits of Felanorm?
Felanorm offers several benefits to pet owners. First and foremost, it is an effective treatment for hyperthyroidism in cats, successfully reducing symptoms and improving quality of life. Additionally, as a generic drug, Felanorm is more affordable than its brand name counterpart, Felimazole Coated Tablets. This makes it a more accessible option for pet owners who may struggle to afford the cost of treatment.
Who produces Felanorm?
Felanorm is sponsored by Norbrook Laboratories Ltd., based in the United Kingdom. This company specializes in animal healthcare, offering a range of products and treatments for pets and livestock.
Conclusion
Felanorm is a new and effective treatment for hyperthyroidism in cats. With its approval from the FDA, this drug offers a more affordable option for pet owners while delivering the same benefits as its brand name counterpart. However, it is important to administer Felanorm precisely according to veterinary instructions and precautions to avoid overdose and other side effects. Overall, Felanorm represents an important development in the treatment of hyperthyroidism in cats, addressing a common and serious ailment that affects many beloved pets.
Originally Post From https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/cvm-updates/fda-approves-first-generic-methimazole-treating-hyperthyroidism-cats
