Tripelennamine

Description

Tripelennamine hydrochloride is a white, crystalline material that is stable and readily soluble in water. It is derived from pyridine and ethylemediamine and used in the form of a crystaline citrate as an intramuscular injection. .

Tripelennamine competes with histamines for uptake at the histamine receptors on sensitive cells in the respiratory tract, intestines, blood vessels, and skin.

It may be used with corticosteroids, allowing use of a lower dose of corticosteroids in the control of allergic reactions.

Usage

Tripelennamine is used in horses for conditions requiring antihistaminic therapy to treat allergic problems, such as hives, and itchy or bumpy skin conditions, and for the alleviation of allergic reactions, such as tongue or facial swelling due to bee stings, insect bites, or contact with irritating plants.

Dosage and Administration

Side Effects

Sedation is a common side effect with antihistamine use. Less common side effects include fine tremors, seizures, excitement, and colic or loss of appetite.

Precautions

Individual horses may react differently to antihistamines. Dosage may need to be tailored to the individual horse.

Tripelennamine may thicken mucus in the horse's respiratory tract. Extra caution should be taken in use with horses with respiratory problems.

Tripelennamine should be given only intramuscularly.

Tripelennamine is FDA-approved for use in horses, and is a prescription drug restricted to use by or on the lawful written or oral order of a licensed veterinarian.

Tripelennamine is prohibited or regulated in most sanctioned competitions. Check with the appropriate regulatory group regarding rules and regulations for use in competition horses.

Interactions

Tripelennamine may have an additive effect when combined with other central nervous system depressant drugs, such as tranquilizers.

Tripelennamine may affect the activity of anticoagulant drugs, such as warfarin.

Overdose

Overdose of tripelennamine would be expected to increase sedation and severity of other side effects.