Metacam given too early

[Littlesqueaks]

Hi there
My guinea pig, Pip, is on long term Metacam for his pain. It’s dog strength (1.5) and 0.48ml twice a day. I’ve given him his medicine 2.5 hours early by mistake (9.5 hours apart rather than 12 hours). I gave him his medicine later than usual last night and then was trying to be organised and gave it too early this morning. He seems fine in himself (it was given over an hour ago) but I am kicking myself and worried. Any advice gratefully received!

 

[Bill & Ted]

Personally I wouldn’t be too worried but if you are, you could explain to the vet your mistake. Guinea pigs have high metabolism and although he is getting a good dose it’s by no means the highest dose that they can be safely given

 

[VickiA]

I really wouldn’t worry about it. I’ve safely given higher doses than that in one go (in the short term) with no ill effect. I’m sure he will be fine.

 

[Littlesqueaks]

Thank you so much for your quick replies! I thought he was on the highest dose for his size - he’s a weighty 1.45kg piggy. So relieved there is a bit of wiggle room. Thank you

 

[Wiebke]

Hi there
My guinea pig, Pip, is on long term Metacam for his pain. It’s dog strength (1.5) and 0.48ml twice a day. I’ve given him his medicine 2.5 hours early by mistake (9.5 hours apart rather than 12 hours). I gave him his medicine later than usual last night and then was trying to be organised and gave it too early this morning. He seems fine in himself (it was given over an hour ago) but I am kicking myself and worried. Any advice gratefully received!

Hi

Please don't worry. Unless specifically stated by your doctor or vet, the 12 hours are an ideal but not a must. 8-10 hours between dosages are no problem with metacam and many twice daily meds.

Choose the medicating times so you come as close to a 12 hour rhythm as your daily life allows but please don't panic if you if can't and use your common sense around your own commitments. For any gap under 6 hours, you want to drop the next dose and then go back to the normal rhythm.
Sometimes I have to move medicating times around in the day at the start of any treatment so they fit best with my normal daily routine. That can take about 2 days but it means I have to sacrifice the 12 hours gap temporarily for longer term benefit.