GALASTOP 15 ml

Presentation: A pale yellow, viscous non aqueous solution for oral administration containing 50 µg/ml cabergoline in a miglyol base.

Uses: Cabergoline is an ergoline derivative with a potent, selective and long-lasting inhibitory effect on Prolactin secretion. Prolactin is the key hormone for lactogenesis and for the initiation and maintenance of lactation after parturition. Furthermore the aetiology of false pregnancy is currently thought to be mediated by rising Prolactin levels stimulated by falling progesterone levels during the course of metoestrus.

Treatment of false pregnancy in bitches: Inhibition of prolactin secretion by cabergoline results in a rapid resolution of the signs of false pregnancy, including lactation and behavioural changes.

Suppression of lactation in bitches: Suppression of lactation in the bitch may be required under certain clinical circumstances (for example following removal of puppies soon after birth, or following early weaning). Inhibition of prolactin secretion by Galastop® results in a rapid cessation of lactation and a reduction in the size of the mammary glands.

Dosage and administration: Galastop® should be administered orally either directly into the mouth or by mixing with food. The dosage is 0.1 ml/kg bodyweight (equivalent to 5μg/kg body weight of cabergoline) once daily for 4-6 consecutive days, depending on the severity of the clinical condition. For dogs less that 5kg bodyweight it is advisable to measure the dosage in drops, 3 drops being equivalent to 0.1 ml. If the signs fail to resolve after a single course of treatment, or if they recur after the end of treatment, then the course of treatment may be repeated. For treatment of false pregnancy, clinical studies have demonstrated efficacy between 80-100%. Behavioural signs are alleviated first, followed by reduction in mammary gland enlargement, then finally suppression of lactation.

Contra-indications, warnings, etc: Do not use in pregnant animals since Galastop® may cause abortion. Do not use in lactating bitches unless suppression of lactation is required. Galastop® may induce transient hypotension in treated animals. Do not use in animals concurrently being treated with hypotensive drugs. Do not use directly after surgery whilst the animal is still under the influence of the anaesthetic agents. Since cabergoline exerts its therapeutic effect by direct stimulation of dopamine receptors, Galastop® should not be administered concurrently with drugs which have dopamine antagonist activity (such as phenothiazines, butyrophenones), as these might reduce its prolactin inhibiting effects. Vomiting or anorexia may occur after the first one or two doses in a small proportion of cases. There is no need to discontinue treatment unless vomiting is severe or it persists beyond the second dose. In some animals a degree of drowsiness may be seen in the first 2 days of dosing. The experimental data indicate that a single overdose with Galastop® might result in an increased likelihood of post-treatment vomiting, and possibly an increase in post-treatment hypotension. General supportive measures should be undertaken to remove any unabsorbed drug and maintain blood pressure, if necessary. It is unlikely that the administration of dopamine antagonist drugs would be necessary, but this course of action could be considered. For animal treatment only. Keep out of reach and sight of children.