I'm really hoping for some advice here because I'm feeling pretty worried. So, I accidentally left my dog's Cerenia intranasal medication out on the kitchen counter for about six hours today. It's supposed to be stored in the fridge, and I only realized it after getting back from running errands. I know how important it is to keep meds at the right temperature, but I just totally spaced out this morning amid the rush. Has anyone else done this before? Is it still going to be effective, or should I just call the vet for a new prescription? My pup is really prone to nausea and she's been doing so much better on Cerenia, so I don’t want to mess up her progress. Any input would mean the world to me!
Hi there! It’s totally understandable to be concerned about whether your pet's medication is still effective. Cerenia is usually stored in the refrigerator to maintain its stability, so leaving it out for six hours may affect its effectiveness, but it doesn’t automatically make it unsafe.
Medications can degrade faster when they experience temperature fluctuations. Cerenia left out for a relatively short period, like six hours, might still be okay, especially if it wasn’t subjected to extreme heat. However, its efficacy may be slightly reduced.
At home, you should examine the medication's appearance: check for changes in color or consistency, and if anything looks off, it's better to be cautious. If you still choose to use it, monitor your pet for any reduction in the expected effectiveness, such as continued nausea or vomiting.
Watch for signs that indicate a serious issue, such as persistent vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, or any unusual behavior. If these occur, it’s important to reach out for veterinary advice.
To ensure your pet gets the best care, consider booking a video consult with one of our vets here at Dial A Vet. They can offer more personalized advice and help you decide the best course of action.
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