CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Julie Hamilton-Elliott,
Medication: Mexiletine
Your cat has been prescribed mexiletine to improve their heart rhythm.
ℹ️Key points: • Anti-arrhythmic (treatment for abnormal heart rhythms). • Dosage: two to three times daily (every 8-12 hours).
ℹ️This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist. ⚠️Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Mexiletine (mex-ill-eh-teen).
Brand name
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing mexilitine.
Class of medication
- Anti-arrhythmic.
Storage
- Store mexiletine at room temperature.
Why has my cat been prescribed mexiletine?
Your veterinarian has prescribed mexiletine to control an abnormal heart rhythm.
How is the medication given?
Mexiletine tablets are given orally two to three times per day and may be administered with or without food.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Possible side-effects include nausea, vomiting, lethargy/depression, convulsions, tremor, abnormal eye movements (nystagmus), slow heart rate, low blood pressure, jaundice and hepatitis. Any side-effects of mexiletine should be reported to your veterinarian. Your pet may be able to continue with the drug if side-effects are mild, but it’s best to let your veterinarian know as soon as possible, so that they can decide whether additional medications or different medications are required. Mexiletine may interact with other drugs, including atropine, opioids, cimetidine, acetazolamide, phenytoin, methionine and rifampicin. Low potassium levels in the blood can reduce the effect of mexiletine.
How long will my cat need to receive this medication?
Mexiletine should be administered according to your veterinarian’s instructions.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused mexiletine safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not give mexiletine to other pets.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the next dose as soon as possible. If you give too much mexiletine contact your veterinarian as overdose can result in abnormal heart rhythms which may require treatment.
My cat is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Mexiletine should only be given to the cat that it has been prescribed for. If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice. If accidentally consumed by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center. Bring the tablets with you when you visit a physician.
Will my cat need to be monitored while on mexiletine?
Your veterinarian will need to examine your pet periodically to be able to prescribe this medication safely and within prescribing regulations. Repeat ECGs may be required to assess ongoing response.
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on mexiletine can be found on the package inserts or via your veterinarian.Europe & UK
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the UK or Europe. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.
US
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing mexiletine available in the US. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human product and will explain the process of prescribing unlicensed products to you.
