Cerenia 60 mg Tablets for Dogs – Effective Relief from Vomiting and Motion Sickness
Cerenia 60 mg Tablets (active ingredient: maropitant citrate) are a prescription-only antiemetic medication specifically formulated for dogs. Manufactured by Zoetis, these peach-colored, scored oval tablets provide reliable prevention and treatment of acute vomiting and vomiting caused by motion sickness.
Cerenia is the first and only FDA-approved veterinary medication that safely and effectively treats vomiting in dogs and prevents vomiting due to motion sickness. It works by blocking NK1 receptors in the brain, stopping the action of substance P – the key neurotransmitter that triggers the vomiting reflex.
Key Features & Benefits
- Dual Indication: Prevention of acute vomiting and prevention of vomiting due to motion sickness
- Fast-Acting: Oral tablets typically take effect within 1–2 hours
- Once-Daily Dosing: Convenient administration for up to 24 hours of relief
- Non-Sedating: Does not cause drowsiness in most dogs (unlike many human anti-nausea medications)
- Scored Tablets: Easy to split for accurate dosing based on your dog’s weight
- Suitable for Medium to Large Dogs: 60 mg strength ideal for dogs requiring mid-range dosing
- Proven Safety: Extensively studied and widely prescribed by veterinarians worldwide
How Cerenia Works
Maropitant citrate is a selective neurokinin-1 (NK1) receptor antagonist. By blocking substance P at the NK1 receptors in the central nervous system (particularly in the emetic center of the brain), Cerenia interrupts the vomiting pathway at a key point. This makes it effective against vomiting from multiple causes, including gastrointestinal upset, chemotherapy-induced nausea, and motion sickness.
Indications
- Prevention of acute vomiting in dogs
- Prevention of vomiting due to motion sickness in dogs 4 months of age and older
- Prevention of nausea induced by chemotherapy (in conjunction with other supportive care)
- Treatment and prevention of vomiting when used alongside Cerenia injectable solution
Dosage & Administration
Important: Always follow your veterinarian’s prescription exactly. Dosage differs significantly between acute vomiting and motion sickness.
Prevention of Acute Vomiting
Administer orally at a minimum dose of 2 mg/kg (0.9 mg/lb) body weight once daily.
- Dogs 2–7 months of age: up to 5 consecutive days
- Dogs 7 months and older: until resolution of acute vomiting as directed by the veterinarian
Approximate dosing guide for 60 mg tablets (acute vomiting):
| Dog Body Weight |
Number of 60 mg Tablets |
| 65 lb (≈30 kg) |
1 tablet |
| 130 lb (≈60 kg) |
2 tablets |
Prevention of Vomiting Due to Motion Sickness
Administer orally at a minimum dose of 8 mg/kg (3.6 mg/lb) body weight once daily for up to 2 consecutive days.
- Give at least 2 hours before travel
- Administer with a small amount of food (avoid a completely empty stomach or a full meal)
- Do not wrap tablets tightly in fatty food (cheese, meat, etc.), as this can delay absorption
Approximate dosing guide for 60 mg tablets (motion sickness):
| Dog Body Weight |
Number of 60 mg Tablets |
| 16 lb (≈7.5 kg) |
1 tablet |
| 33 lb (≈15 kg) |
2 tablets |
Important Safety Information
- Prescription Required: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.
- For oral use in dogs only.
- Do not use in dogs with known hypersensitivity to maropitant citrate.
- Use with caution in dogs with hepatic (liver) dysfunction.
- Use with caution when administering concurrently with other highly protein-bound medications.
- The underlying cause of vomiting should always be identified and addressed.
- Safe use has not been evaluated in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs.
- Keep out of reach of children and other animals.
Possible Side Effects
Cerenia is generally well tolerated. Possible side effects may include:
- Decreased appetite
- Lethargy or decreased activity
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Excessive salivation (drooling)
- Trembling or muscle tremors (rare)
Contact your veterinarian if side effects are severe, persistent, or if vomiting continues despite treatment.
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature between 68°F–77°F (20°C–25°C). Keep tablets in the original packaging until ready for use. Protect from moisture and excessive heat.
Why Choose Cerenia 60 mg?
The 60 mg strength offers precise dosing flexibility for medium and large dogs, reducing the need to split higher-strength tablets. Whether your dog suffers from car sickness, experiences acute vomiting, or needs support during chemotherapy, Cerenia provides targeted, non-sedating relief trusted by veterinarians around the world.
Note: This is a prescription medication. A valid veterinary prescription is required for purchase. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new medication for your pet.