Maropitant citrate hydrate is a synthetic compound that has emerged as a significant medication in veterinary medicine, particularly for its antiemetic properties. The discovery of maropitant can be traced back to the early 2000s, when researchers aimed to develop new agents that could effectively combat vomiting and nausea in pets, particularly in dogs and cats. This need arose from the limitations of existing antiemetic medications, which often had insufficient efficacy or undesirable side effects.
The chemical structure of maropitant is derived from a novel class of compounds known as neurokinin-1 (NK1) receptor antagonists. The mechanism of action involves the selective inhibition of the NK1 receptors, which are responsible for mediating the effects of substance P, a neuropeptide that plays a pivotal role in the emetic pathway. By blocking these receptors, maropitant effectively prevents and alleviates vomiting caused by various triggers, including motion sickness, chemotherapy, and other underlying medical conditions.
Maropitant was first introduced to the veterinary market under the brand name Cerenia by the pharmaceutical company Zoetis. The product quickly gained popularity due to its effectiveness and safety profile. It became the first NK1 receptor antagonist approved for use in dogs, marking a significant advancement in veterinary therapeutics. Subsequently, it received approval for use in cats, expanding its application and ensuring that a broader range of pets could benefit from its effects.
The clinical applications of maropitant citrate hydrate extend beyond general antiemetic use. It is commonly utilized in pre-operative settings to prevent vomiting associated with anesthesia and surgery, thus enhancing patient safety and recovery outcomes. Additionally, maropitant has proven effective in managing acute vomiting episodes due to various causes, including gastrointestinal diseases and inflammatory conditions. Its versatility and effectiveness have made it a standard treatment option in veterinary practices around the world.
The compound is available in various formulations, including injectable solutions and oral tablets, allowing for flexible administration based on the needs of the patient and the specific clinical situation. Its dosage can be adjusted according to the severity of symptoms and the individual animal's response, ensuring that veterinarians can tailor treatment to achieve optimal outcomes.
Research into maropitant continues to evolve, with ongoing studies exploring its potential applications in other species and conditions. There is interest in understanding its effects on other neuropeptides and pathways involved in vomiting and nausea, which could pave the way for novel therapeutic strategies in both veterinary and human medicine. The discovery and subsequent application of maropitant citrate hydrate have not only improved the management of vomiting in pets but have also set a precedent for the development of targeted therapies in veterinary pharmacology.
Brand: Soarwin
CAS No.:359875-09-5
EC number:837-630-8
Molecular Formula: C32H40N2O.C6H8O7.H2O
Density: 1.484
Boiling point:572.6 °C at 760 mmHg
Melting point:153-159 °C(lit.)