Crofelemer CA1

What is crofelemer CA1?

Crofelemer CA1, also known as crofelemer (brand name Canlevia®-CA1) is an antidiarrheal drug used to treat diarrhea caused by chemotherapy in dogs.

It is conditionally approved to treat chemotherapy-induced diarrhea in dogs. Due to conditional approval, crofelemer must be used as labeled. Do not confuse crofelemer with Sevelamer.

How do I give my pet crofelemer?

Crofelemer comes in tablet form (delayed release).

• Tablets are given orally (by mouth).
• Delayed release tablets should not be broken, crushed, or chewed.
• This medication should be given to your pet with food or within 30 minutes of feeding.
• Give this medication to your pet for the entire time prescribed by your veterinarian, even if it appears that your pet is feeling better.

This medication will take effect quickly, in about 1 to 2 hours, but outwardly, effects may take a few days to be recognized. This short-acting medication will stop working within 24 hours of discontinuing the medication.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

Give the missed dose as soon as you remember and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects from crofelemer CA1?

Crofelemer may cause the following side effects:

• changes in stool appearance
• vomiting and/or decreased appetite
• decreased energy

If stomach upset occurs, try giving the medication with food. These signs should go away during treatment; if they continue, contact your veterinarian.

The following reactions are rare, but if they occur, contact your veterinarian immediately:

• significant vomiting or loss of appetite
• extreme tiredness
• coughing
• lack of coordination
• an allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face

Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. 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?

NEVER give this drug to dogs experiencing diarrhea caused by a toxin or infection.

This medication should be AVOIDED in dogs who:

• are pregnant, nursing, or used for breeding 
• have a small body size

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Certain medications should be USED WITH CAUTION when given with crofelemer, including, but not limited to: 

• anticholinergic agents (e.g., atropine)
• other antidiarrheal agents (e.g., loperamide)
• H1 receptor antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine)
• opioids (e.g., buprenorphine)
• phenothiazines (e.g., acepromazine)

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
• Your veterinarian may schedule follow-up visits for monitoring. In this case, follow your veterinarian’s directions.

How do I store crofelemer CA1?

• Store tablets in a tightly sealed container, protected from light, at room temperature. 
• Leave tablets in the manufacturer's packaging until needed to ensure they are protected from air. 
• Keep medication out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of 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.