Metacam for Cats: Understanding Shelf Life and Proper Storage

Introduction

Metacam, also known as meloxicam, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly prescribed for cats to alleviate pain and inflammation associated with various conditions. Understanding the shelf life and proper storage of Metacam is crucial to ensure the medication's efficacy and safety for your feline friend.

Shelf Life

The shelf life of Metacam for cats varies depending on the formulation:

• Oral suspension (1.5 mg/mL): 24 months from the date of manufacture
• Injectable solution (5 mg/mL): 24 months from the date of manufacture
• Transdermal gel (1.5 mg/g): 12 months from the date of manufacture

Storage Conditions

To maintain the potency and stability of Metacam, it should be stored under the following conditions:

• Oral suspension and injectable solution: Store in a refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).
• Transdermal gel: Store at room temperature below 77°F (25°C).
• All formulations: Protect from light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Storing at room temperature: Metacam should be stored in a refrigerator or at room temperature (for transdermal gel only), depending on the formulation.
• Storing in a humid environment: Keep Metacam away from moisture and humidity.
• Using expired medication: Expired Metacam may be less effective or pose potential risks.

Why Metacam Shelf Life Matters

• Ensuring efficacy: Metacam's active ingredient, meloxicam, can degrade over time, reducing its effectiveness in relieving pain and inflammation.
• Preventing adverse effects: Expired Metacam may contain degraded components that can potentially cause adverse reactions in cats.
• Maintaining accurate dosing: Using expired Metacam can lead to inaccurate dosing, which can compromise treatment effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.

Benefits of Proper Storage

• Optimal efficacy: Storing Metacam under proper conditions ensures its potency and effectiveness in managing pain and inflammation.
• Reduced risk of adverse effects: Proper storage minimizes the risk of cats encountering degraded components that could cause adverse reactions.
• Accurate dosing: Correctly stored Metacam ensures accurate dosing to provide optimal therapeutic outcomes.

Table 1: Metacam Shelf Life and Storage Conditions

Table 2: Common Mistakes to Avoid

Table 3: Benefits of Proper Storage

FAQs

1. How to tell if Metacam has expired?
   - Check the expiration date on the package.
   - Discard Metacam that has passed its expiration date.
   - Noticeable changes in color or consistency may also indicate expiration.

2. What should I do with expired Metacam?
   - Do not use expired Metacam.
   - Contact your veterinarian for proper disposal instructions.

3. Can I store Metacam in the freezer?
   - No, do not store Metacam in the freezer.
   - Freezing can damage the medication and reduce its effectiveness.

4. How long can I store Metacam after opening?
   - Oral suspension: Use within 3 months of opening.
   - Injectable solution: Use within 28 days of opening.
   - Transdermal gel: Use within 6 months of opening.

5. Is it safe to give my cat expired Metacam?
   - No, do not give your cat expired Metacam.
   - Expired Metacam may be ineffective or harmful to your pet.

6. How should I store Metacam in my car during travel?
   - Use a cooler with ice packs to keep Metacam refrigerated.
   - Avoid exposing Metacam to extreme heat or cold.