Butorphanol tartrate
Brands: Torbugesic, Torbutrol
Butorphanol tartrate is a veterinary pain-reliever used for managing pain in dogs and cats.
Used for
- pain management
- pre-anesthetic
- sedation
How it is given
- Administration
- injection
- Frequency
- every 6-12 hours
- Duration
- varies by condition
- Storage
- Store at room temperature, away from moisture and light.
- Pregnancy safety
- caution
Always confirm the exact dose with your veterinarian before giving any medicine.
Typical dose ranges
cat
- Standard
- 0.2-0.4 mg/kg
dog
- Large dogs
- 0.1-0.2 mg/kg
- Small dogs
- 0.1-0.2 mg/kg
- Medium dogs
- 0.1-0.2 mg/kg
Ranges are reference only. Your vet sets the dose for your pet's weight and condition.
Active ingredients
- Butorphanol tartrate
Side effects
Common
- sedation
- lethargy
Rare
- loss of appetite
Severe
- respiratory depression
Do not use when
- hypersensitivity to opioids
- severe respiratory issues
Interacts with
- central nervous system depressants
- antihistamines
Warnings
- Monitor for respiratory issues
- Use caution with liver or kidney disease
Butorphanol tartrate questions
Is butorphanol safe for pets?
Butorphanol is typically safe when used as prescribed by a veterinarian.
Can butorphanol be given with other medications?
It can be used alongside other medications, but always consult your vet first.
What should I watch for while my pet is on butorphanol?
Monitor your pet for signs of respiratory distress and contact your vet if any severe side effects occur.
Does butorphanol require a prescription?
Yes, butorphanol requires a prescription from a licensed veterinarian.
Is butorphanol a controlled substance?
It is a controlled substance due to its opioid content.
Full drug detail
Overview
Butorphanol tartrate is a widely-used, veterinary-prescribed medication for managing pain in pets, particularly dogs and cats. As a member of the opioid agonist-antagonist class, it offers effective relief from moderate to severe pain and is often used in pre-anesthetic protocols.
How It Works
Butorphanol works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, altering the way animals perceive pain. Its agonist-antagonist properties mean it stimulates some receptors while blocking others, which helps reduce pain without the full range of side effects seen in other opioids.
Uses & Indications
Butorphanol is primarily used for the management of pain associated with surgeries, injuries, and chronic conditions. It is also employed as a pre-anesthetic medication and for its mild sedative effects.
Dosage Guidelines
Dogs
- Small Dogs: 0.1-0.2 mg/kg
- Medium Dogs: 0.1-0.2 mg/kg
- Large Dogs: 0.1-0.2 mg/kg
Cats
- Standard: 0.2-0.4 mg/kg
Administration
Butorphanol can be administered via injection, either intravenously, intramuscularly, or subcutaneously, depending on the specific needs of the pet.
Frequency
Typically administered every 6-12 hours as needed for pain management.
Duration
The duration of treatment depends on the condition being treated and the animal's response to therapy.
Side Effects
Common
- Sedation
- Lethargy
Rare
- Loss of appetite
Severe
- Respiratory depression (requires immediate veterinary attention)
Precautions & Warnings
Butorphanol should not be used in pets with known hypersensitivity to opioids or in those with severe respiratory issues. Caution is advised in animals with liver or kidney disease.
Drug Interactions
- Interaction with other central nervous system depressants
- Interaction with antihistamines
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and light.
FAQ
Is butorphanol safe for pets?
Answer: Butorphanol is typically safe when used as prescribed by a veterinarian.
Can butorphanol be given with other medications?
Answer: It can be used alongside other medications, but always consult your vet first.
What should I watch for while my pet is on butorphanol?
Answer: Monitor your pet for signs of respiratory distress and contact your vet if any severe side effects occur.
Does butorphanol require a prescription?
Answer: Yes, butorphanol requires a prescription from a licensed veterinarian.
Is butorphanol a controlled substance?
Answer: It is a controlled substance due to its opioid content.