Dexmedetomidine, Transmucosal

(deks-mee-deh-toe-mih-deen)

Other names for this medication: Sileo

Dexmedetomidine is used in dogs to treat fears and anxieties related to noises.

•This medication comes in a syringe and is dosed using the number of dots on the plunger.

•Administer the medication along your dog’s gums. This medication is absorbed through the gums and should NOT be swallowed.

•Wear gloves when touching the syringe, administering this medication, or when coming into contact with your animal’s mouth after administration.

•Avoid handling this medication if you are pregnant.

•Common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, and low energy level.

Description

•Sedative

•Available as a gel that is applied to an absorbed across the gums (transmucosal)

•This medication comes in a syringe and is dosed using the number of dots on the plunger.

Uses

FDA-approved uses in animals:

•Treatment of noise phobia in dogs

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

•Reducing fear and anxiety in dogs prior to veterinary visits

Before this medication is given

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

•Any other medications or supplements your animal is taking

•Any conditions or diseases your animal has now or has had in the past

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

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

Warnings for animals

Do not use in animals:

•That are allergic to it

•With severe heart, lung, liver, or kidney disease

•That are severely debilitated

•That are stressed due to extreme heat, cold, or fatigue

•That are already sedated from a previous dose of this medication

Use with caution in:

•Dogs younger than 16 weeks of age

•Elderly or weak animals

•Animals with dental or gingival problems

•Animals taking other sedative medications

•Animals that are pregnant or nursing

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

Warnings for humans

•Wear impermeable disposable gloves when handling this medication. Ask your veterinarian if your gloves are appropriate.

•Avoid handling this medication if you are pregnant.

•Dexmedetomidine gel can be absorbed after direct exposure to skin, eyes, or mouth.

‐In case of accidental skin contact, remove contaminated clothing and wash the skin with soap and water.

‐In case of accidental eye exposure, flush with water for 15 minutes. Rinse eyes before removing any contact lenses, then continue rinsing. Seek medical advice immediately.

‐In case of accidental ingestion, seek medical advice immediately. Ingestion may cause sedation and changes in blood pressure.

‐Share the package information with your physician.

‐Exposure can also cause an allergic reaction in some individuals.

How do I give this medication?

•Give the first dose 30 to 60 minutes before the expected noise event.

•IMPORTANT: This medication is absorbed through the gums and should NOT be swallowed. It may not work if it is swallowed.

•To administer the medication:

‐Hold the syringe so that you can see the dot markings.

‐Hold the plunger with one hand. With the other hand, twist the dosing ring along the plunger until the number of dots shown between the dosing ring and the barrel of the syringe matches the prescribed dose. The side of the ring-stop closest to the barrel should be in line with the black line on the plunger.

‐Hold the syringe barrel and pull, don’t twist, the cap off the syringe and set it aside. The cap is very tight and requires a strong pull.

‐Place the syringe tip between your dog’s cheek and gum and press the plunger until the ring causes it to stop, applying the medication along the gumline. If your dog’s prescription is for more than 6 dots, divide the dose between both sides of the mouth.

‐Recap the syringe and place it back in the box. Remove and discard gloves.

•If your veterinarian instructed you to give multiple doses during a noise event:

‐Wait at least 2 hours between doses.

‐Only repeat a dose if your animal is still fearful or anxious and is not drowsy from the previous dose.

‐Do not give more than 5 doses during any one noise event.

•If the medication is swallowed, wait at least 2 hours before administering another dose.

•Avoid feeding a meal, giving treats, or letting your animal drink water within 15 minutes of administration.

Give exactly as your veterinarian has prescribed. Always follow the instructions on the prescription label. Contact your veterinarian if you have any questions about using the syringe.

Side effects

Common – contact your veterinarian if any of these signs are severe, continue to occur, or worsen over time:

•Vomiting or diarrhea

•Drowsiness, sedation, or low energy level

•Pale gums

•Slow breathing rate

•Weakness

Severe – contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of these signs:

•Collapse

•Inability to wake your animal

How will I know it's working?

•Your animal should appear calmer within 30 to 60 minutes.

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

How long will the medication effects last?

•This medication lasts for 2 to 3 hours.

•It may last longer if your animal has reduced liver function.

How long do I give it for?

This medication is intended for situational use and should not be used on an ongoing basis. No more than 5 doses can be given during one noise event. Follow your veterinarian’s instructions.

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 when you remember. Wait at least 2 hours before giving another dose. Do not double-up or give extra doses.

Storage

•Store in the original container at room temperature.

•Protect from light.

•Keep out of reach of children and animals.

Disposal

Discard unused portions of the syringe 4 weeks after opening.

Do not flush this medication down the toilet or wash 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.