Acepromazine

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Acepromazine Basics

• Acepromazine is available by prescription only.

• Acepromazine is a tranquilizer or sedative used to depress the central nervous system.

• Acepromazine is commonly used to alleviate...

• anxiety

• fear

• motion sickness

• Acepromazine is used frequently before surgery, in combination with other sedatives and anesthetics, to provide smoother sedation in patients.

• Acepromazine is classified as a phenothiazine neuroleptic, which means it modifies the chemicals in the brain to change a pet's behavior.

• The exact mechanism of acepromazine is unknown, but it is thought to block the receptors of dopamine in the brain.

• Dopamine is a chemical messenger that controls movement, emotional response, and the ability to experience pain.

• Acepromazine is available in two different sized tablets:

• 10 mg

• 25 mg

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Acepromazine Warnings

• Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

• Do not use if your pet has previously shown sensitivity to acepromazine.

• Use acepromazine with caution in animals suffering from...

• Heart disease

• Seizure disorders

• Liver disease

• Acepromazine is not recommended for use in Boxer breeds.

• Do not use in pregnant or lactating animals.

• Acepromazine can cause behavioral changes. Dogs may become aggressive or unusually nervous while taking acepromazine.

• Acepromazine may lower the body temperature of some animals.

• Acepromazine should not be used in combination with...

• Narcotics

• Barbiturates

• Propranolol

• Epinephrine

• Antacids

• Anti-diarrheal medications

• Do not use acepromazine in conjunction with flea collars or any flea medication with organophosphates.

• Acepromazine can cause increased organophosphate toxicity. If your dog has organic phosphate poisoning, which is caused by ingesting insecticides and some flea and tick medications, DO NOT administer acepromazine.

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Acepromazine Directions

• Use acepromazine as directed by your veterinarian.

• Follow the instructions on the prescription label.

• Store acepromazine at room temperature.

• If your pet is taking acepromazine, provide constant access to water.

• Acepromazine can be given by mouth 45 minutes prior to some surgical procedures.

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Acepromazine Dosage FAQs

• In the case of a missed dose of acepromazine, give it as soon as you remember, or wait until it is time to give the next dose. DO NOT GIVE A DOUBLE DOSE OF ACEPROMAZINE.

• In the case of an overdose of acepromazine, seek attention from your veterinarian.

• The following symptoms could be signs of an overdose...

• seizures

• unconsciousness

• low blood pressure

• disorientation

• uncoordinated movements

• slow heart rate and breathing

• excessive drowsiness

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Acepromazine has been used in veterinary practice for decades as a tranquilizer and a pre-anesthetic agent. If you are traveling in a vehicle for a long distance with your pet, tranquilization can really improve the quality of your trip. When used correctly, this drug helps reduce anxiety and nausea associated with traveling. It is inexpensive and very effective. There are newer medications like Cerenia for motion sickness, but acepromazine is still an excellent option.

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If you notice any behavioral or physiological changes in your pet while administering acepromazine, contact your veterinarian immediately.

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Adverse Reactions and Serious Side Effects

• Allergic reactions and serious side effects when using acepromazine are rare.

• In the case of an allergic reaction, contact your veterinarian. Some common signs of an allergic reaction or a serious side effect are...

• facial swelling

• breathing difficulties

• rashes or hives

• seizures

• Acepromazine should be used carefully in dogs with...

• Liver dysfunction

• Cardiac disease

• Acute hypotension

• Leukopenia

• Acepromazine can cause behavioral changes. These changes may include uncharacteristic aggression. Caution should be used.

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