For Veterinary Use Only

Ingredients

Tramadol sustained release capsules contain the following in a clear gelatin capsule:

• Tramadol
• Lactose
• Hypromellose
• Colour

In order to ensure maximum dosing flexibility and accuracy, a number of capsule strengths are compounded as requested by your veterinarian, from 5mg per capsule up to and including 150mg of Tramadol.   The formulation most commonly requested is a sustained release formulation that releases the medication over a period of 6 to 8 hours.

Common Uses of this Medication

This medication is used to treat various types of pain in dogs, cats, and other small mammals.  It can be used for pain following surgical procedures, injury related pain, or chronic pain caused by conditions such as arthritis.

Instructions for Usage

Tramadol should be given as directed by your veterinarian.  Doses vary according to your pet’s weight.  This medication is usually given 2 to 3 times a day, although the regimen can be tailored to accommodate the needs of you and your pet to achieve the best pain control possible.

The capsules must be swallowed whole, and are not to be opened, crushed, or chewed by your pet.  This ensures that the medication is released consistently over several hours.  It is very important to make sure your pet does not bite or break the capsule while swallowing it.  This can be avoided by placing the capsule in the back of your pet’s mouth.  The gelatin capsules have no taste, however it may be easier to give the medication if it is hidden in a piece of food and given under supervision to make sure that it is swallowed.

Dosing

As a sustained release formulation, each capsule should provide pain control for 6-8 hours, but may last longer depending on the breed, age, and weight of your pet.  Optimal pain control can be achieved by following the directions provided by your veterinarian.  If your pet does not seem to experience any pain relief from the medication, consult your veterinarian or pharmacist before making any changes to doses and dosing intervals.

Side Effects

Some common side effects associated with Tramadol include constipation, dizziness, sedation, and nausea.  Generally, these side effects are quite mild, but if you notice that your dog is vomiting, constipated, has difficulty with standing or walking, or is unusually inactive, consult your veterinarian immediately.

Precautions

If your pet is experiencing severe side effects, please consult your veterinarian before discontinuing the medication.  Also, do not discontinue the medication abruptly unless directed to do so by your veterinarian.  Doing so can cause withdrawal symptoms such as increased anxiety.  Please notify your veterinarian if your pet has poor liver or kidney function, as the dose of the medication may need to be adjusted.

Your pets’ behavior may change while taking Tramadol.  If the medication is not providing enough pain relief, you may notice your pet is acting restless and pacing.  If the dose is just right, you may notice your pet is resting more than usual, but should not be difficult to wake up.  If the dose is too high, you may notice that your pet is difficult to rouse from sleep, and may appear lethargic.

Storage

Tramadol sustained release capsules should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.  Do not store medication in the bathroom.  The capsules will expire one year after being made.  Any unused or expired capsules should be returned to the pharmacy for proper disposal.

Compounded Medications

Just like many other medications that we prepare as customized solutions to a variety of therapeutic problems, this preparation was prepared specifically for your pet’s needs.  Please, do not share this medication – do not give this medication to any other animal.  The dosage was calculated by your veterinarian based on the animal’s specific need for pain medication, the animal’s weight and ability to tolerate this medication.  Not all animals tolerate or respond to the medication in the same way.

Of course, keep all medications in a safe place out of the reach of small children.

 Note: This medication is specially compounded for your pet.  When ordering a refill of the medication, please call two to three days prior to running out of the medication.  This time allows us to schedule the preparation of your pet’s medication, to make certain we have all the ingredients and to do the necessary quality controls. Every prescription is a customized dosage form made specifically for your companion animal.  It is important that we have adequate time to assure that each and every preparation meets the necessary quality standards.  We appreciate your help to maintain this standard.