(Propulsid ® is another name for this medication)

Use: Cisapride stimulates your animal’s intestines to move and is useful in treating chronic constipation or other conditions where the gastrointestinal tract has stopped moving food and waste.

Side Effects: The most common side effects are diarrhea and increased bowel activity. Your pet may initially experience some abdominal cramping when cisapride is given. Cisapride may also cause your pet to become more excited than usual in higher doses. You should notify your veterinarian immediately if you notice that your pet seems more restless than usual.

Precautions: Cisapride should not be given to animals that have an immovable obstruction in their gastrointestinal tract as this will worsen the condition. Cisapride should be used with caution in animals with heart conditions as cisapride may affect heart rate and beat. Cisapride should not be used in pregnant animals. Cisapride is removed from the body by the liver and should be used carefully in pets with liver disease.

Directions: Animals usually receive cisapride two to three times daily. Ask your veterinarian.

Remember: Cisapride is no longer commercially available and must be compounded by your pharmacist. If you receive a liquid form of cisapride, make sure you shake it well in the container before opening it. Cisapride should be protected from light and moisture.

If you miss a dose of this medication you should give it as soon as you remember it, but if it is within a few hours of the regularly scheduled dose, wait and give it at the regular time. Do not double a dose as this can be toxic to your pet.