Products
Tripelennamine is commercially available as a solution for injection. It is approved exclusively as a veterinary drug in many countries and has been since 1959. In Germany, it is approved for use in humans as a pen to relieve itching after contact with insects, jellyfish, or stinging nettles (Azaron).
Structure and properties
Tripelennamine (C16H21N3, Mr = 255.4 g/mol) is an ethylenediamine. It is used in veterinary medicine as tripelennamine hydrochloride, a white, crystalline, bitter-tasting powder that is very soluble in water and causes transient numbness of the tongue.
Effects
Tripelennamine (ATCvet QR06AC04) is a histamine H1 receptor antagonist and belongs to the 1st generation antihistamine group. It has antihistamine, antiallergic, anticholinergic, antiadrenergic, local anesthetic, and mild depressant properties. The effects are dose-dependent.
Mechanism of action
The action of tripleennamine is based on the competitive displacement of histamine at histamine H1 receptors. This results in reversal of the effects of histamine and relief of allergic symptoms.
Indications
Tripelennamine is an antiallergic for cattle, horses, pigs, dogs, and cats. It is used to relieve symptoms of acute allergic reactions such as urticaria, insect bites, and food allergies. In addition, tripelennamine is also used to treat emphysema and laminitis in cattle and horses, edema disease in piglets, and skin and ear infections in dogs and cats.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. Tripelennamine is administered intravenously or intramuscularly. The solution for injection should be prewarmed to body temperature before use.
Contraindications
Tripelennamine is contraindicated in hypersensitivity. Refer to the drug label for complete precautions.
Interactions
Tripelennamine potentiates the effects of opioids. It should not be co-administered with MAO inhibitors or their toxicity may be increased.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include hypertension, rapid pulse, dilated pupils, and hyperthermia of the body. In horses, intravenous administration of tripelennamine may cause excitement and discomfort. This manifests as biting, snorting, stamping, pawing, rapid eye and ear movements, tightening of the neck muscles, and raising of the head. In the case of overdose, excitation of the central nervous system and convulsions occur.
