N-butylscopolammonium bromide
Also known as: Buscopan, Buscapina, Buscopan Compositum
> **Important Note**: This medication requires accurate patient assessment, intravenous administration, and subsequent monitoring. It should only be administered by a licensed veterinarian. * **Why it's used**: It rapidly relaxes the intestines to relieve pain from gas or spasms (colic) and makes procedures like rectal examinations safer and more comfortable for your horse. * **What to expect**: You may notice your horse's heart rate increase temporarily, their mouth may seem dry, and their pupils might dilate slightly. These effects are normal and wear off quickly (usually within 30 minutes to a few hours). * **Monitoring**: Because the drug temporarily raises the heart rate, your veterinarian will not be able to use heart rate to gauge your horse's pain level for about 30 minutes after the injection. * **Follow-up**: If your horse's colic signs return after the medication wears off, it may indicate a more serious issue requiring further medical or surgical intervention.
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
- Control of abdominal pain (colic) associated with spasmodic colic, flatulent colic, and simple impactions
- To treat esophageal obstruction
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Transient tachycardia
- Decreased borborygmal sounds
- Transient pupil dilation
- Decreased secretions
- Dry mucous membranes
Cautions & contraindications
- Impaction colics associated with ileus
- Glaucoma
- Horses intended for food purposes
- Nursing foals
- Pregnant or lactating mares
- Not for use in patients with ileus or when decreased GI motility may be harmful. Because this drug can cause increases in heart rate, heart rate cannot be used as a valid pain indicator for 30 minutes after injection. When used for labeled indications, a lack of response may indicate a more serious problem that may require surgery or more aggressive care. The manufacturer has not studied the safety of IM administration.
Drug interactions
- ATROPINE or other anticholinergic agents: May cause additive effects if used with N-butylscopolammonium
- METOCLOPRAMIDE and other drugs that have cholinergic-like actions on the GI tract: These drugs and N-butylscopolammonium may counteract one another's actions on GI smooth muscle
Frequently asked questions
What is N-butylscopolammonium bromide used for in pets?
> **Important Note**: This medication requires accurate patient assessment, intravenous administration, and subsequent monitoring. It should only be administered by a licensed veterinarian. * **Why it's used**: It rapidly relaxes the intestines to relieve pain from gas or spasms (colic) and makes procedures like rectal examinations safer and more comfortable for your horse. * **What to expect**: You may notice your horse's heart rate increase temporarily, their mouth may seem dry, and their pupils might dilate slightly. These effects are normal and wear off quickly (usually within 30 minutes to a few hours). * **Monitoring**: Because the drug temporarily raises the heart rate, your veterinarian will not be able to use heart rate to gauge your horse's pain level for about 30 minutes after the injection. * **Follow-up**: If your horse's colic signs return after the medication wears off, it may indicate a more serious issue requiring further medical or surgical intervention.
Is N-butylscopolammonium bromide 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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