Dexdomitor® (dexmedetomidine hydrochloride) is a potent α2-adrenoceptor agonist widely utilized in veterinary medicine for its sedative and analgesic properties in dogs and cats. Accurate dosing is crucial to ensure both efficacy and safety, with dosages tailored based on the animal’s body surface area (BSA) and specific clinical requirements.
Understanding the Dexdomitor Dosing Chart
The Dexdomitor dosing chart provides precise dosage recommendations for various clinical scenarios, including sedation, analgesia, and preanesthesia. Dosages are calculated in micrograms per square meter (mcg/m²) of BSA, with corresponding volumes in milliliters (mL) for administration.
Canine Dosage Guidelines
For dogs, the dosing varies depending on the intended use:
- Sedation and Analgesia:
- Intravenous (IV): 375 mcg/m²
- Intramuscular (IM): 500 mcg/m²
- Preanesthesia:
- IM: 125 mcg/m²
It’s important to note that the mcg/kg dosage decreases as body weight increases. For example, dogs weighing 2 kg are dosed at 28.1 mcg/kg dexmedetomidine IV, compared to dogs weighing 80 kg that are dosed at 8.7 mcg/kg. Due to the small volume of administration, accurate dosing is not possible in dogs weighing less than 2 kg (4.4 lb).
Feline Dosage Guidelines
In cats, Dexdomitor is administered intramuscularly for sedation, analgesia, and anesthesia at a standard dose of 40 mcg/kg.
Administration and Monitoring
After administering Dexdomitor, it’s essential to allow the animal to rest quietly until sedation is evident, typically within 5 to 15 minutes. Continuous monitoring of cardiovascular and respiratory parameters is vital due to potential side effects such as bradycardia, hypotension, and respiratory depression.
Reversal of the Dexdomitor’s effects can be achieved using atipamezole hydrochloride (Antisedan®) administered intramuscularly at an equal volume to the Dexdomitor dose. This reversal agent is FDA-approved for use in dogs only.
Safety Precautions
Dexdomitor should not be used in animals with cardiovascular disease, respiratory disorders, liver or kidney diseases, or in conditions of shock, severe debilitation, or stress due to extreme heat, cold, or fatigue. Its safety has not been evaluated in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs or cats; in dogs younger than 16 weeks of age or in cats younger than 12 weeks of age; or in geriatric animals.
FAQs
1. What is the primary use of Dexdomitor in veterinary medicine?
Dexdomitor is primarily used for sedation and analgesia in dogs and cats to facilitate clinical examinations, procedures, and as a preanesthetic agent.
2. How is the appropriate Dexdomitor dose determined for dogs?
The dose is calculated based on the dog’s body surface area (BSA) in mcg/m², with specific dosages outlined for sedation, analgesia, and anesthesia.
3. Can Dexdomitor be used in animals with pre-existing health conditions?
Dexdomitor is contraindicated in animals with cardiovascular disease, respiratory disorders, liver or kidney diseases, or in conditions of shock or severe debilitation.
4. How can the effects of Dexdomitor be reversed in dogs?
The effects can be reversed using atipamezole hydrochloride (Antisedan®) administered intramuscularly at an equal volume to the Dexdomitor dose.
5. What are common side effects associated with Dexdomitor?
Potential side effects include bradycardia, hypotension, respiratory depression, and, in some cases, vomiting. Continuous monitoring during use is essential to manage these effects.
For detailed dosing charts and comprehensive information, refer to the Dexdomitor Canine Dosing Chart and the Dexdomitor Veterinary Package Insert.
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