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Sileo Gel (Dexmedetomidine)

Written by Dr. Feargus McConnell, BVSc on the Jan.16, 2024

Petdirect is dedicated to providing educational pet health content for pet parents. This article was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer common questions about your pet’s medication. Our focus is on delivering unbiased information to help you understand how medication works, its potential side effects, and FAQs for your reference. Always administer medication directly as prescribed by your vet. This article shouldn’t take the place of advice from your vet.

What is Sileo® Gel?

Sileo® contains Dexmedetomidine as the primary active ingredient which possesses analgesic and sedative properties. This medication is commonly used to alleviate anxiety and fear in dogs caused by loud noises, such as fireworks and thunderstorms. Administered as an oromucosal gel, it is designed to be applied to the inner lining of the dog's cheek, allowing for direct absorption.

How does it work?

The main ingredient Dexmedetomidine is an alpha-2-adrenergic agonist. It functions by binding to specific receptors in the brain, reducing the release of norepinephrine, a stress-related chemical. This action helps decrease the physical and behavioural symptoms of anxiety and fear in dogs.

Dose and Administration

For the effective use of Sileo®, it's essential to adhere to your veterinarian's guidance. Typically, this medication should be administered 30 to 60 minutes before an expected noise event that might cause anxiety in your dog, or as soon as you notice any signs of anxiety. When applying Sileo®, it is advised to wear gloves and place the gel between the dog's cheek and gums for proper absorption. It is crucial to follow the exact dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian to ensure the safety and well-being of your pet.

Overdose:

In case of an overdose, symptoms like excessive sedation or slow heart rate may occur. Contact your veterinarian immediately or call the New Zealand National Poisons Centre at 0800 869 738 or visit www.poisons.co.nz/animal-helpline/ .

Contraindications and Precautions

Sileo® is generally safe for most dogs, but there are certain considerations:

  • Only dogs with a clean bill of health should be considered for Sileo®.
  • Avoid use in dogs with heart, respiratory, liver, or kidney diseases, or those severely debilitated.
  • Not recommended for dogs younger than 16 weeks, with dental or gum disease, or those that are pregnant, lactating, or breeding.

Discuss any medications your pet is on with your vet, as certain drugs can interact with Sileo®.

Potential Side Effects

While Sileo® is well-tolerated by most dogs, some may experience side effects such as:

  • Pale gums (temporary)
  • Drowsiness
  • Weakness
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of balance
  • Muscle tremors
  • Inappropriate urination

If you observe any of the above symptoms, contact your veterinarian.

Storage

Store Sileo® at controlled room temperatures, ensuring it is out of reach of children and other pets. Opened syringes should be used or discarded within four weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How is Sileo® administered to dogs?

  • Sileo® is applied transmucosally, meaning it is placed between the cheek and gums for absorption. It is not meant to be swallowed.

Does Sileo® make dogs sleepy?

  • Sileo® aims to calm dogs without causing drowsiness. It helps reduce trembling, hiding, and panting in noisy environments.

How quickly does Sileo® take effect?

  • Sileo® typically begins to work about 30 minutes after administration.

Conclusion

Sileo® can be a beneficial tool for managing noise-related anxiety in dogs, but it's crucial to use it responsibly and under veterinary guidance. We hope this article provides a clear understanding of this medication for your pet. Remember, always seek advice from your veterinarian for any health-related decisions for your pets.