Butorphanol is an opiate partial agonist used in dogs, cats and many other species. It is a controlled substance used as an analgesic (pain medication), antitussive (cough suppressant), antiemetic (controls vomiting) and as an anesthetic drug used in conjunction with other medications.
Analgesia (pain control), antitussive (cough suppressant), antiemetic (controls vomiting), anesthetic agent
Butorphanol can be given for the relief of mild pain, the relief of chronic non-productive cough, the relief of vomiting associated with a certain chemotherapy drug (cisplatin) and is used in conjunction with other medications to induce sedation/anesthesia.
Butorphanol tablets should be stored at room temperature. The injectable form should be stored away from bright light at room temperature.
If a dose is missed, continue with the next dosage at the scheduled time.
Acute life-threatening overdoses with butorphanol are unlikely with the oral form. Contact your veterinarian if you suspect your pet has received an overdose.
Central nervous system depressants may increase the effects of butorphanol. Erythromycin and theophylline may decrease the metabolism of butorphanol. Fentanyl may alter the effect of butorphanol. Pancuronium may cause changes in the conjunctiva when used with butorphanol.
Butorphanol should be used with caution in patients with hypothyroidism, severe kidney disease, Addison’s disease, geriatric animals and severely debilitated animals. Use with extreme caution in patients with head trauma, increased cerebrospinal fluid pressure or central nervous system dysfunction. The manufacturer recommends avoiding use in dogs with a history of liver disease, conditions of the lower respiratory tract associated with high mucus production and heartworm disease. The dose of butorphanol given to dogs with the MDR1 (ABCB-1) gene mutation should be decreased.
*Plumb’s Veterinary Drug Handbook*
Manufacturer information: Zoetis
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