Velagliflozin

(vel-a-glih-flow-zin)

Other names for this medication: Senvelgo

Used to lower blood sugar levels in cats with diabetes mellitus.

•This medication should only be used in cats that are eating and drinking normally. It should NOT be used in cats that are currently receiving insulin or have been treated with insulin in the past.

•Give this medication with or without food around the same time every day. Do not mix into food.

•Your veterinarian will need to monitor your cat frequently after starting this medication.

•The most common side effect of this medication is diarrhea.

•Contact your veterinarian if you notice decreased appetite or thirst, weight loss, vomiting or diarrhea, lack of energy, weakness, or difficulty walking or standing.

Description

•Antidiabetic medication

•Available as an oral liquid

Uses

FDA-approved uses in animals:

•Treatment of diabetes mellitus in cats

At the discretion of your veterinarian, this medication may be used in different species or for other reasons (extra-label use).

Before this medication is given

No medication is 100% safe in all patients. Discuss with your veterinarian:

•Any other medications or supplements your cat is taking. Tell your veterinarian if your cat has ever been treated with insulin.

•Any conditions or diseases your cat has now or has had in the past, especially if your cat has ever had a buildup of acid in the blood (diabetic ketoacidosis), fatty liver (hepatic lipidosis), inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), or urinary tract infections.

•Any side effects your cat has had to medications in the past

•The risks of using this medication if your cat is pregnant or nursing

Warnings for animals

•Do not use in cats:

‐That are allergic to this medication

‐That are currently receiving insulin or have previously been treated with insulin

‐That have diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or have had it in the past

‐With severe liver or kidney disease

‐That are not eating or drinking normally

‐That have a lower energy level than normal

‐That have a history of pancreatitis

‐With chronic diarrhea

•Talk to your veterinarian if your animal is scheduled for an upcoming surgery. Temporarily discontinuing this medication may be recommended.

•Certain medications are not allowed in some animal competitions. Check rules and regulations when your animal is taking a medication.

Warnings for humans

•Wash your hands after handling any medication.

•Avoid contact with the eyes. In case of accidental contact, rinse eyes immediately with water. If you are wearing contacts, rinse eyes before and after removing contact lenses. Seek medical attention if eye irritation occurs.

How do I give this medication?

•Give this medication directly into your cat’s mouth or give on top of a small amount of wet food. Make sure your cat eats the entire dose. Do not mix into food.

•Give at the same time each day.

•Measure liquids using the syringe provided with your prescription.

•If your cat vomits within 30 minutes of administration, you may repeat the dose.

•Close the cap tightly after each dose. Clean the syringe with a dry cloth if needed.

Give exactly as your veterinarian has prescribed. Always follow the instructions on the prescription label.

Side effects

Side effects of this medication can be serious or indicate a serious problem, even if the side effects are mild. Stop the medication and contact your veterinarian if you notice:

•Vomiting or diarrhea

•Lack of energy or change in normal activity

•Decreased appetite or thirst

•Increased thirst and urination

•Weight loss

•Weakness or difficulty walking or standing

•Increased frequency of urination, straining to urinate, blood in the urine, or urinating outside the litter box. These may be signs of a urinary tract infection.

This medication may increase the risk for diabetic ketoacidosis.

How will I know it's working?

•This medication can improve blood sugar levels within the first week of treatment.

•You may notice a decrease in your animal’s thirst, urine, and hunger.

•Your veterinarian will perform follow-up tests to determine how well your animal is tolerating this medication and evaluate how well it is working. Your animal will likely have several visits within the first 4 weeks of treatment.

Contact your veterinary clinic if your cat’s signs worsen or do not improve.

How long will the medication effects last?

•This medication will stop working within 24 hours of the last dose.

•It may last longer if your cat has reduced kidney or liver function.

How long do I give it for?

•This medication can be given for different lengths of time but may be a lifelong medication. Give it for as long as your veterinarian tells you. Make sure to refill the prescription to avoid interruptions in treatment.

Overdose

If you witness or suspect an overdose, call your veterinarian or an animal-specific poison control center (consultation fee applies):

•ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435

•Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Have the product or label with you if possible.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose:

•Give it as soon as you remember on the same day, then continue the regular dosing schedule.

If you are unsure, call your veterinary clinic. Do not double-up or give extra doses.

Storage

•Store in the original container at room temperature

•Keep out of reach of children and animals

‐This product is flavored to be appealing to animals. Secure storage that is well out of reach is important to prevent accidental overdose.

Disposal

Bottles should be discarded 6 months after opening.

Do not flush this medication down the toilet or wash it down the sink. Options for disposing of unused or expired medications include:

•Drug take-back sites: This is preferred whenever possible. To find a site near you, contact your local law enforcement or waste management authorities.

•Home disposal: Mix the medication in with coffee grounds or kitty litter, seal in a plastic bag, and throw away in the trash.

Do not save leftover medication or give it to others to use.