Selectively antagonizes 5-HT3 serotonin receptors in the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) and peripheral vagal nerve terminals in the GI tract, preventing serotonin-induced nausea and vomiting.
At a glance
Class
5-HT3 Serotonin Receptor Antagonist / Antiemetic
Storage
Store at room temperature; diluted IV solution stable 24h at room temperature
Dosing
Used to prevent vomiting from chemotherapy, motion sickness, and parvovirus
Effective antiemetic in cats
Safety
Cardiac rhythm (especially with IV use or cardiac disease)Electrolytes (K, Mg) before administration
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Dolasetron?
Dolasetron is a 5-ht3 serotonin receptor antagonist / antiemetic used in pets. Selectively antagonizes 5-HT3 serotonin receptors in the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) and peripheral vagal nerve terminals in the GI tract, preventing serotonin-induced nausea and vomiting.
›What is Dolasetron used for in pets?
Dolasetron is used in veterinary medicine for: Used to prevent vomiting from chemotherapy, motion sickness, and parvovirus; Effective antiemetic in cats.
›What is the Dolasetron dose for dogs?
For dogs, Dolasetron is typically dosed as follows — Used to prevent vomiting from chemotherapy, motion sickness, and parvovirus: 0.6 mg/kg PO/IV q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Dolasetron dose for cats?
For cats, Dolasetron is typically dosed as follows — Effective antiemetic in cats: 0.6 mg/kg PO/IV q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Dolasetron need a prescription?
Yes. Dolasetron 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.
Find a vet near you →