What is dexmedetomidine?
Dexmedetomidine is a sedative and tranquilizer used in the treatment of fear and anxiety in dogs (Sileo®) and as a sedative and pain medication in both dogs and cats (Dexdomitor®).
It is also used off label (extra label) as a pre-anesthetic or tranquilizer in exotic pets. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine.
“Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
How is dexmedetomidine given?
- Dexmedetomidine is usually administered as an injection into the muscle.
- This medication is usually administered within the hospital setting.
- In dogs, it can also be given as a gel or liquid on the gums (gingiva), but it should not be swallowed. Avoid feeding your dog after giving the medication in order to help with absorption. Your veterinarian will tell you how to time the dose.
- For the gel formulation, read the drug insert carefully and ensure the dosing syringe is fully locked at the appropriate dose mark to prevent overdose.
- You may use an oral dosing syringe that has already been used to give a dose, provided there is enough medication in the syringe for a complete dose.
- Wear gloves when administering the gel to prevent human exposure.
- If you have any questions about giving this medication to your pet, consult your veterinarian before administering it.
What if I miss giving my pet the dexmedetomidine?
Typically, this medication is not given on a schedule. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations on what to do if a dose is missed.
Are there any potential side effects?
Dexmedetomidine may cause the following side effects:
- Extreme sedation/lethargy for a short time
- Pale gums
- Lowered heart rate
- Lowered respiratory rate
- Temporary pain at the injection site (when injected into the muscle)
Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving dexmedetomidine and contact your veterinarian immediately:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Collapse
This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours. Effects can last longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
DO NOT USE dexmedetomidine in:
- Pets that have a sensitivity to it
- Pets with severe heart, lung, liver, or kidney problems
- Pets that are severely debilitated
- Pets that are stressed due to extreme heat or cold
- Pets that are pregnant or nursing
- Pets that are still sedated from a previously given dose
DO NOT USE dexmedetomidine oral formulation in:
- Cats
USE WITH CAUTION in:
- Dogs younger than 16 weeks of age
- Dogs taking other behavior-modifying medications
- Pets that are senior or weak
- Dogs with dental or gingival problems (caution for oral formulation of dexmedetomidine only)
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
Several medications should be used with caution when given with dexmedetomidine, including:
- ACE inhibitors, such as enalapril (Enacard®) and benazepril (Fortekor®)
- Acepromazine
- Amlodipine
- Anesthetics
- Atenolol
- Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam and midazolam
- Opioids, such as morphine and tramadol
- Sildenafil
- Telmisartan (Semintra®)
- Yohimbine
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.
Is any monitoring needed with this medication?
- Your veterinarian may regularly monitor your pet's heart rate, heart rhythm, and blood pressure while your pet is taking this medication.
- Body temperature should be monitored, especially if the environmental temperature is warmer or colder than average room temperature.
- Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
- At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.
How do I store dexmedetomidine?
- Store dexmedetomidine in its original container, protected from light, and at room temperature.
- Use opened syringes (gel formulation) within 4 weeks.
What should I do in case of an emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms.
