PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION - RX Required
Dopram (doxapram hydrochloride) is a respiratory stimulant used in veterinary medicine to stimulate breathing in dogs and cats. It is particularly useful during anesthesia recovery, in cases of respiratory depression, and to initiate breathing in newborn animals.
Uses:
- Stimulation of respiration in anesthetized animals
- Treatment of respiratory depression
- Initiation of breathing in newborn animals
Dosage Information:
Dogs:
- Intravenous (IV) Administration:
- General Respiratory Stimulation: 0.5 to 1 mg per pound (1 to 2 mg/kg) of body weight
- To Initiate Breathing in Newborns: 1 to 5 drops (0.1 to 0.5 mL) under the tongue or into the umbilical vein
Cats:
- Intravenous (IV) Administration:
- General Respiratory Stimulation: 0.2 to 0.5 mg per pound (0.5 to 1 mg/kg) of body weight
- To Initiate Breathing in Newborns: 1 to 5 drops (0.1 to 0.5 mL) under the tongue or into the umbilical vein
Administration:
- IV Injection: Administer the appropriate dose based on the animal's weight via intravenous injection. It is recommended that a veterinarian administer the injection to ensure proper dosing and monitoring.
- Oral Administration for Newborns: Administer the drops under the tongue or into the umbilical vein as directed.
Precautions:
- Use only as directed by your veterinarian.
- Not for use in animals with a known hypersensitivity to doxapram.
- Use with caution in animals with a history of seizures or head trauma.
- Monitor blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate during administration.
Side Effects:
- Common side effects may include increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, and tremors.
- Less common side effects include hyperactivity, vomiting, and diarrhea.