What is telmisartan?
Telmisartan (brand name Semintra®) is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) used to treat high blood pressure in cats and kidney disease in both cats and dogs.
Its use in cats and dogs to treat kidney disease is ‘off-label’. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully as their directions may be significantly different from those on the label.
How is telmisartan given?
Telmisartan is given by mouth in the form of a liquid or tablet. It may be given with or without food but is better absorbed if given on an empty stomach. If your pet vomits or acts sick when given on an empty stomach, give future doses with food.
This medication should take effect within one to two hours, however, effects may not be visibly noticeable; therefore, laboratory tests and blood pressure measurements may be needed to evaluate this medication’s effectiveness for your pet.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
Give the missed dose as soon as you remember and then wait the recommended amount of time between doses unless it is close to the time for the next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and wait to medicate your pet at the next scheduled dose. Never give your pet two doses at once or give extra doses.
Are there any potential side effects?
Side effects may include vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, low blood pressure, and decreased energy. Serious side effects that should be reported right away to your veterinarian include severe tiredness or collapse.
This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
Do not use telmisartan in pets that are allergic to it or other similar medications, in pets that are dehydrated, have low blood pressure, or are pregnant. Use cautiously in pets with severe liver problems or blood cell abnormalities. Your veterinarian will advise you on the safety of telmisartan use in your pet.
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
There are several drugs that can contribute to adverse effects when given with telmisartan. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking. Your veterinarian will advise on the safe use of telmisartan with your pet’s current medications and supplements. If your pet inadvertently ingests any medication, let your veterinarian know right away.
Is there any monitoring that needs to be done with this medication?
Blood electrolyte levels, kidney values, and urine should be monitored shortly after starting the medication and then at intervals recommended by your veterinarian. Periodic monitoring of your pet’s complete blood count (CBC) and biochemistry panel (including kidney values, liver enzymes, and electrolytes) is also recommended. If using this medication to manage high blood pressure, your veterinarian will routinely measure your pet’s blood pressure to be sure that the medication is working. If using this medication to manage proteinuria, your veterinarian will routinely assess your pet’s urine protein:creatinine ratio.
Monitor your pet for serious side effects.
How do I store telmisartan?
Telmisartan solution for cats should be stored at room temperature below 25°C (77°F) with the cap tightly closed. Tablets that are dispensed in blister packs should remain in the pack until use; tablets that are removed from the blister pack should be used immediately. Consult your veterinarian on storage if your pet needs less than a full tablet per dose.
What should I do in case of an emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.
