Purified proanthocyanidin extracted from Croton lechleri (dragon's blood tree) that inhibits both CFTR chloride channels and calcium-activated chloride channels (CaCC) in intestinal epithelium, reducing chloride and water secretion into the gut lumen without affecting motility.
At a glance
Class
Antisecretory Antidiarrheal (Botanical)
Storage
Store at room temperature below 30°C
Dosing
FDA-approved for chemotherapy-induced diarrhea in dogs
Safety
Stool consistency and frequencyClinical response within 48h
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Crofelemer?
Crofelemer is a antisecretory antidiarrheal (botanical) used in pets. Purified proanthocyanidin extracted from Croton lechleri (dragon's blood tree) that inhibits both CFTR chloride channels and calcium-activated chloride channels (CaCC) in intestinal epithelium, reducing chloride and water secretion into the gut lumen without affecting motility.
›What is Crofelemer used for in pets?
Crofelemer is used in veterinary medicine for: FDA-approved for chemotherapy-induced diarrhea in dogs; Limited feline data.
›What is the Crofelemer dose for dogs?
For dogs, Crofelemer is typically dosed as follows — FDA-approved for chemotherapy-induced diarrhea in dogs: 1 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Crofelemer dose for cats?
For cats, Crofelemer is typically dosed as follows — Limited feline data: undefined undefined PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Crofelemer need a prescription?
Yes. Crofelemer is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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