Tussigon

GENERIC NAME:

Hydrocodone bitartrate

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

This drug is a medication that is used in dogs and cats to suppress dry and non-productive coughing. Some formulations may also contain guaifenesin which helps to loosen mucous and others contain homatropine methylbromide which has a drying effect on secretions. Hydrocodone bitartrate is available in the form of tablets and as a liquid.

WHAT IS THIS DRUG?

• A cough suppressant
• Given by mouth

REASONS FOR PRESCRIBING:

• To treat dry and harsh coughing such as with kennel cough, chronic bronchitis, and collapsing trachea

WHAT DOGS/CATS SHOULD NOT TAKE THIS MEDICATION?

• Animals with liver disease
• Animals with blood disorders
• Animals with certain kidney disease
• Animals with certain vascular disease
• Animals that are dehydrated
• Animals that may be pregnant or nursing
• Animals with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to this drug should not take this medication

Read and follow the prescription label carefully.

Give the exact amount prescribed and only as often as directed.

This medication should be given with food to reduce stomach upset.

Give this medication for as long as your veterinarian directs. Do not skip doses or stop giving the medication without consulting your veterinarian.

Baseline blood work may be recommended to assess your pet's general health before starting this medication.

Periodic blood work to monitor its effects on the body is also advised if long term therapy is necessary. Dose adjustments may be made based upon these results and an assessment of how your dog or cats is responding clinically.

Call ahead for refills.

Ideally, give this medication at the same time(s) daily.

WHAT IF A DOSE IS MISSED?

If a dose is missed, give it as soon as you can. If it is time already for the next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to the normal schedule. Do not give two doses at the same time.

STORAGE AND WARNINGS:

Hydrocodone bitartrate should be stored in a childproof container in a cool, dry place at room temperature away from heat and direct sunlight.

Keep this and all medication out of reach of children and pets.

Do not give your pet aged cheese products as they can interact with this medication causing problems with blood pressure.

Call your physician immediately if you accidentally take this product.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS:

• This medication can affect the gastrointestinal system causing nausea, vomiting and constipation
• This medication can affect the central nervous system causing sedation and drowsiness
• If these symptoms persist or you notice anything else unusual, contact your veterinarian

CAN THIS DRUG BE GIVEN WITH OTHER DRUGS?

• Yes, but possible interactions may occur when giving hydrocodone bitartrate in conjunction with: acepromazine, antihistamines, phenobarbital, selegiline, and certain medications in flea and tick collars
• Drugs other than those listed may also interact with hydrocodone bitartrate
• Do not give new food or medications without first talking to your veterinarian
• If your pet experiences any unusual reactions when taking multiple medications, contact your veterinarian

OVERDOSING?

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet receives more than the prescribed amount.

WHAT TO TELL/ASK A VETERINARIAN BEFORE GIVING MEDICATION?

Talk to your veterinarian about:

• When your pet will need to be rechecked
• What tests may need to be performed prior to and during treatment with this drug
• What are the risks and benefits of using this drug

Tell your veterinarian about:

• If your pet has experienced side-effects on other drugs/products
• If your pet has experienced digestive upset now or ever
• If your pet has experienced liver or kidney disease now or ever
• If your pet has experienced any other medical problems or allergies now or ever
• All medicines and supplements that you are giving your pet or plan to give your pet, including those you can get without a prescription. Your veterinarian may want to check that all of your pet's medications can be given together.
• If your pet is pregnant, nursing or if you plan to breed your pet

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW?

Notify your veterinarian if your animal's condition does not improve or worsens despite this treatment.

As with all prescribed medicines, hydrocodone bitartrate should only be given to the pet for which it was prescribed.

It should be given only for the condition for which it was prescribed.

This is just a summary of information about hydrocodone bitartrate. If you have any questions or concerns about hydrocodone bitartrate or the condition it was prescribed for, please contact your veterinarian.