ButorphanolDose, contraindications and adverse effects for Cats, Cattle, Dogs and Horses.

Opioid agonist-antagonist analgesic and antitussive; kappa-receptor agonist, mu-receptor antagonist/partial agonist. Butorphanol is FDA-approved for use in dogs to relieve chronic nonproductive cough associated with tracheobronchitis, tracheitis, tonsillitis, laryngitis, and pharyngitis originating from inflammatory conditions of the upper respiratory tract. In cats, butorphanol is labeled for the relief of pain caused by major or minor trauma or pain associated with surgical procedures. It is also used in b

Butorphanol is considered to be, on a weight basis, 4 to 7 times more potent an analgesic (ie, agonist) than morphine, 15 to 30 times more potent than pentazocine, and 30 to 50 times more potent than meperidine; however, a ceiling effect is reached at higher doses, where analgesia is no longer enhanced and may be reduced.

Butorphanol is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to it. All opioids should potentially be used with caution in patients with hypothyroidism, severe renal insufficiency, adrenocortical insufficiency (Addison’s), or obstructive respiratory disease and in geriatric or severely debilitated patients. Like other opioids, butorphanol must be used with caution in patients with head trauma, increased intracranial pressure, or other CNS dysfunction (eg, coma).

Adverse effects reported in dogs and cats include sedation, excitement, respiratory depression, ataxia, mydriasis, disorientation, hypersalivation, anorexia, vomiting, or diarrhea (rarely). Sedation with butorphanol and dexmedetomidine can decrease tear production and may require treatment with a tear substitute. Antitussive effect may result in mucus accumulation in the respiratory tract.

■ Analgesic and/or antitussive efficacy ■ Respiratory rate and depth ■ Appetite and bowel function ■ CNS effects ■ Heart rate