About Acepromazine (generic of PromAce)
Acepromazine is a commonly used tranquilizer and neuroleptic agent for dogs, cats, and horses. A derivative of phenothiazine, it has multiple uses, and is often administered in combination with other drugs. Use of acepromazine must be regulated, due to various systemic side effects.
Features/Use/Recommendation
- A popular tranquilizer in veterinary medicine, used to calm or sedate aggressive or nervous animals
- Often employed by veterinary surgeons as a preanisthetic (preparation for general anesthesia), depressing the central nervous system and dropping the animal's blood pressure
- Anitarrhythmic properties are helpful in stabilizing heart rate
- An effective antiemetic (prevents nausea and motion sickness)
- Also utilized as an antihistamine, reducing itching, scratching, and other allergy-related symptoms
- Used in horses in the early treatment of laminitis for its antispasmodic effects
- Used as a preventative and treatment for horses prone to exertional rhabdomyolysis
Manufacturer
N/A
Directions
Acepromazine is administered intramuscularly, intravenously, or orally. It is most effective if given when the animal is not stimulated or excited. When provided for horses in the treatment of exertional rhabdomyolysis, acepromazine is often supported by the use of an IV. Use as directed by your veterinarian.
Ingredients
N/A
Side Effects
The depression of the central nervous system can cause sedation, depression, lack of coordination, low blood pressure, slower heart rate and breathing; there have been instances of profound hypotension (low blood pressure), bradycardia, and collapse in individual animals. In some cases, the opposite may occur, and uses of acepromazine may trigger aggression and hyperactivity.
Acepromazine also displays anti-cholinergic and alpha-adrenergic blocking properties, and affects thermoregulation, possibly leading to either hypothermia or hyperthermia.
In rare cases, penile paralysis can occur in horses administered acepromazine.
Pale gums are a recognized side effect, and as with any phenothiazine, this medication may color the urine pink.
Due to its effect on heart rate, acepromazine is not recommended for geriatric animals or those in a weakened state. Some studies suggest that the boxer breed of dog is particularly sensitive, though this has been rebutted as well. It is recommended that acepromazine be used cautiously in sighthounds, and in animals prone to seizures.
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