If you’re wondering about sedatives for dogs, how they’re used, how long they last, and which is best for your dog, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll be focusing on acepromazine and letting you know about its uses, potential side effects, and when to worry.
What Is Acepromazine For Dogs?
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Acepromazine, also known as ACP, is a dog sedative. It is sometimes given to dogs who are having an anesthetic as part of their premedication to calm them down. Other medications like pain relievers (analgesics) and muscle relaxants may also be used alongside acepromazine as a premedication, depending on the procedure or surgery that the dog is having.
Acepromazine can also be used as a dog tranquilizer, for use at times when dogs are severely stressed or afraid or if they are aggressive or difficult to handle (at the vet clinic, for example). Finally, ACP can be used to treat travel sickness in dogs. Acepromazine is available as both a tablet and an injection, and both must be prescribed by your dog’s veterinarian rather than used outside of veterinary advice.
Is Acepromazine Safe For Dogs?
While acepromazine is safe at the correct dose when used in most healthy dogs, it should not be used long-term. Therefore, it is most appropriate for use as a premedication, travel sickness treatment, or sedative before a vet visit, anticipated fireworks, or other stressful events. It should not be used in dogs who are pregnant or lactating, and it must be used with care in Boxer dogs because they are particularly sensitive to its effects.
What If A Dog Accidentally Receives An Overdose Of Acepromazine?
If you accidentally give your dog too much acepromazine, you should let your veterinarian know right away. If it was recent, they might choose to make your dog vomit to prevent absorption of the tablets, but if your dog is already showing signs related to the overdose, they may need to put them on a drip and monitor them and their blood pressure closely until the effects wear off.
Acepromazine Side Effects In Dogs
Side effects of acepromazine include fainting (known as syncope), collapse, low blood pressure, and excessive sedation. These effects are particularly common in Boxers and large or short-nosed breeds. Therefore, low doses of acepromazine are best used in these situations.
How Long Does Acepromazine Last In Dogs?
The length of time that your dog is affected by acepromazine depends on the dose that they have had, as well as their breed, size, and other factors. The larger the dose they receive, the longer the effect will last. In general, the effects of acepromazine tend to disappear within six to eight hours. If your dog is not waking up from acepromazine, or you have any concerns, you must speak to your veterinarian immediately.
How Long For Acepromazine To Take Effect?
Acepromazine tends to take effect within an hour of being administered. Dogs who are already stressed or anxious may take longer to display the effects, while dogs who already have low blood pressure or are sensitive to acepromazine will show a response much more quickly.
Acepromazine Dosage For Dogs
Your veterinarian will work out the acepromazine for dogs’ dosage by weight, as well as take into account specifics that might make them more susceptible to the drug. It is very important to follow your veterinarian’s direction when it comes to dosing your dog with ACP, since a high dose may lead to more serious effects. It’s also important not to give other medication alongside acepromazine without checking with your veterinarian first.
How Is Acepromazine Stored?
Acepromazine does not need to be stored in the fridge. It should be stored at room temperature, or in a cool, dry place. Most importantly, since it also causes sedation in humans, you must keep it safely out of the way of children and animals, to avoid accidental ingestion.
Speak With Your Vet
Acepromazine is one of many drugs that your veterinarian might choose as a premedication for your dog if they are having surgery or another procedure under anesthetic. However, it is also used as a tranquilizer or sedative and for travel sickness. If you think your anxious dog might benefit from acepromazine, you can discuss it with your veterinarian. They will be able to decide whether acepromazine is the best choice for your dog and make other recommendations if there is a better alternative.
If you’re not a fan of pharmacueticals, you may also want to discuss some all-natural alternatives for stress and anxiety. See our reviews of the best CBD oil for dogs, CBD dog treats, and the best calming supplements for dogs to see our recomendations.