OxymorphoneDose, contraindications and adverse effects for Cats, Dogs, Horses and Poultry.

Full mu-opioid receptor agonist analgesic, more potent than morphine. Oxymorphone is used in dogs and cats as a sedative and analgesic agent. It is occasionally used in horses as an analgesic and as an induction agent for anesthesia. In swine, oxymorphone is used as an adjunctive analgesic with ketamine and xylazine for anesthesia. Oxy- morphone is used in small rodents as an analgesic and anesthetic agent for minor surgical procedures. Oxymorphone is effective fo

Oxymorphone is a mu-opiate receptor agonist and is ≈10 times more potent than morphine. Opioid receptors are in high concentrations in the limbic system, spinal cord, thalamus, hypothalamus, striatum, and midbrain. The GI tract, urinary tract, and other smooth muscle tissues also contain opioid receptors.

Oxymorphone is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to narcotic analgesics and patients with diarrhea caused by a toxic ingestion (until the toxin is eliminated from the GI tract). Additionally, oxymorphone is considered contraindicated in humans with GI tract obstruction and paralytic ileus. Patients with severe hepatic disease may have prolonged duration of drug action; moderate to severe hepatic impairment is a contraindication in humans.

In general, oxymorphone has a similar adverse effect profile to hydromorphone or morphine in dogs and cats. Dose-related respiratory depression is possible and is more likely during general anesthesia. Panting can occur but may be less than with hydromorphone, and cough suppression may occur. Secondary to enhanced vagal tone, oxymorphone can cause bradycardia.

■ Respiratory rate and depth ■ Level of central nervous system depression or excitation ■ Blood pressure (especially with IV use) ■ Analgesia ■ Cardiac rate