Ergoline derivative that antagonizes serotonin (5-HT2) receptors and inhibits prolactin secretion from the anterior pituitary. Reduces lactation and pseudopregnancy symptoms. Alternative to cabergoline and bromocriptine.
At a glance
Class
Serotonin Antagonist / Prolactin Inhibitor
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light
Dosing
Used for pseudopregnancy/pseudolactation
Used for feline pseudolactation
Safety
Clinical resolution of pseudopregnancyGI tolerance
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Metergoline?
Metergoline is a serotonin antagonist / prolactin inhibitor used in pets. Ergoline derivative that antagonizes serotonin (5-HT2) receptors and inhibits prolactin secretion from the anterior pituitary. Reduces lactation and pseudopregnancy symptoms. Alternative to cabergoline and bromocriptine.
›What is Metergoline used for in pets?
Metergoline is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for pseudopregnancy/pseudolactation; Used for feline pseudolactation.
›What is the Metergoline dose for dogs?
For dogs, Metergoline is typically dosed as follows — Used for pseudopregnancy/pseudolactation: 0.1–0.2 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Metergoline dose for cats?
For cats, Metergoline is typically dosed as follows — Used for feline pseudolactation: 0.1 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Metergoline need a prescription?
Yes. Metergoline 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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