Vidalta 15mg Tablet for Cats - per Tablet
246220
Vidalta 15mg is a prescription-only veterinary medicine used to treat hyperthyroidism in cats. Each modified-release tablet contains 15 milligrams of the active substance carbimazole. The treatment is designed to control the overproduction of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland, helping to manage the symptoms of hyperthyroidism and improve your cat’s overall health and wellbeing.
What is Hyperthyroidism in Cats?
Hyperthyroidism is a common endocrine disorder affecting middle-aged and older cats. It occurs when the thyroid gland, located in the neck, becomes overactive and produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormones, particularly thyroxine (T4). These hormones regulate the body’s metabolism, so when their levels are too high, the cat’s metabolism speeds up significantly.
The condition is usually caused by a benign tumour on the thyroid gland, known as an adenoma. In rare cases, it can be caused by a malignant tumour. As the disease progresses, it places strain on the heart, liver, kidneys, and other vital organs. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial to managing the condition effectively.
VET PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED
Product Features
- Pack Size: - Sold Individually
- Target Animal: - Cat (Feline)
- Related Condition: - Treatment of hyperthyroidism in cats
- Pet Prescription Required?: - Yes (For UK Orders)
- Active Ingredient: - Carbimazole
- Product Name: - Vidalta 15mg Tablet for Cats - per Tablet
More Information
Description
15mg Vidalta Tablets for Cats with Hyperthyroidism
Vidalta may only be supplied with a valid veterinary prescription issued by your vet. You should only purchase Vidalta if you have or are in the process of arranging such a prescription. See information bar for further details.
Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism
Cats with hyperthyroidism may display a range of symptoms. The most common include:
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Weight loss despite an increased appetite
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Restlessness or hyperactivity
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Increased thirst and urination
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Vomiting or diarrhoea
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Poor coat condition or hair loss
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Rapid heart rate
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Behavioural changes, such as irritability or anxiety
Without treatment, the condition can worsen over time and may lead to serious health complications, including high blood pressure (hypertension), heart disease, and kidney damage.
How Vidalta 15mg Works
Vidalta contains carbimazole, a substance that is converted into the active form methimazole within the body. Methimazole works by inhibiting the production of thyroid hormones in the thyroid gland. It does this by blocking the enzyme thyroperoxidase, which is involved in the synthesis of thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), the two main thyroid hormones.
Vidalta is formulated as a modified-release tablet, which allows the medication to be released gradually over time. This means that it only needs to be administered once daily, helping to maintain a steady level of thyroid hormone suppression throughout the day. The once-daily dosing also makes the treatment routine simpler and more convenient for both cat and owner.
By reducing the production of thyroid hormones, Vidalta helps to alleviate the symptoms of hyperthyroidism and restore a more normal metabolic rate. Over time, most cats experience improvements in appetite, weight, coat condition, and overall behaviour.
Usage and Administration
Vidalta tablets should be given orally and at the same time each day, as directed by your veterinary surgeon. The tablets should not be split, crushed, or chewed, as this may affect the modified-release mechanism. The dosage prescribed will depend on your cat’s weight, thyroid hormone levels, and response to treatment.
It is important that Vidalta is only used under the supervision of a vet, and that your cat receives regular monitoring. Thyroid hormone levels and kidney function will need to be checked periodically to ensure that the medication is working effectively and safely.
Vidalta is not suitable for use in cats with pre-existing liver disease or certain blood disorders. It should also not be given to pregnant or lactating cats.
Precautions and Side Effects
As with any medication, side effects can occur. The most common side effects associated with Vidalta include:
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Vomiting
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Reduced appetite
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Lethargy
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Diarrhoea
These symptoms are often mild and temporary, particularly in the early stages of treatment. If they persist or worsen, veterinary advice should be sought.
Less commonly, cats may develop more serious side effects such as liver problems, low white blood cell counts (leucopenia), or clotting disorders. These conditions are usually detected through regular blood tests, which is why ongoing veterinary monitoring is important.
In rare cases, cats may exhibit signs of hypersensitivity to the medication, such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing. If this occurs, stop treatment and contact a vet immediately.
People administering the medication should wash their hands after handling the tablets. Pregnant women, or women of childbearing age, should avoid handling Vidalta, as exposure to carbimazole may pose a risk to unborn children.
Storage and Handling
Vidalta should be stored in a dry place at room temperature, below 25°C. Keep tablets in the original packaging until they are needed, and ensure they are kept out of reach of children and animals. Do not use the medication beyond the expiry date printed on the packaging.
Unused or expired medication should be disposed of in accordance with local regulations. Do not flush unused Vidalta down the toilet or throw it away with household waste. Your vet or pharmacist can advise you on the correct disposal method.
Legal category
Vidalta is a POM-V (Pet Prescription Required)
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