Acetaminophen
Also known as: Tylenol, APAP, Paracetamol
> **CRITICAL WARNING:** Never give this medication to cats or ferrets under any circumstances. It is highly toxic and often fatal to these species. * **For Dogs:** Follow your veterinarian's directions carefully. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage or increase the dosing frequency, as overdoses can cause severe liver damage. * Keep all medications strictly out of reach of children and pets. * Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice vomiting, lethargy, swelling of the face or paws, or dark/discolored gums.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Analgesic (Rabbits)
- Analgesic (Mice, Rats, Gerbils, Hamsters, Guinea pigs, Chinchillas)
- Analgesic
- Analgesic
- Analgesic
- Treatment of degenerative myelopathy (in German Shepherds)
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Methemoglobinemia (especially in cats and dogs at high doses)
- Hepatotoxicity (liver necrosis)
- Renal effects
- Gastrointestinal disturbances
- Facial and paw swelling (edema)
- Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS)
- Cyanosis
- Hypothermia
Cautions & contraindications
- Cats (at any dosage)
- Ferrets
- Sugar Gliders
- Hedgehogs
- **WARNINGS:** * **ABSOLUTELY CONTRAINDICATED IN CATS AND FERRETS.** Severe methemoglobinemia, hematuria, icterus, and death can occur. * Dogs do not metabolize acetaminophen as well as humans; use judiciously to avoid methemoglobinemia and hepatotoxicity. * Not recommended during the immediate post-operative phase (first 24 hours) in dogs due to increased risk of hepatotoxicity. * Use cautiously in pregnant animals (FDA Category B in humans, Papich Class C in veterinary).
Drug interactions
- Other Analgesics: Chronic use with acetaminophen may lead to renal pathologies
- Barbiturates: Increased conversion of acetaminophen to hepatotoxic metabolites; potentially increased risk for hepatotoxicity
- Doxorubicin: May deplete hepatic glutathione, thereby leading to increased hepatic toxicity
- Halothane: Not recommended for postoperative analgesia in animals that received halothane anesthesia
- Isoniazid: Possible increased risk of hepatotoxicity
- Phenothiazines: Possible increased risk for hypothermia
- Propylene Glycol: May increase the severity of acetaminophen-induced methemoglobinemia or Heinz body formation
- Warfarin: Large doses may potentiate anticoagulant effects
Frequently asked questions
What is Acetaminophen used for in pets?
> **CRITICAL WARNING:** Never give this medication to cats or ferrets under any circumstances. It is highly toxic and often fatal to these species. * **For Dogs:** Follow your veterinarian's directions carefully. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage or increase the dosing frequency, as overdoses can cause severe liver damage. * Keep all medications strictly out of reach of children and pets. * Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice vomiting, lethargy, swelling of the face or paws, or dark/discolored gums.
Is Acetaminophen safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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