Papaveretum
Also known as: Omnopon
Papaveretum is a strong, controlled painkiller used in the veterinary clinic, usually given by injection before or during surgery. * It is very effective at stopping pain but can cause your pet to feel nauseous or vomit. * It may cause your pet to be quite sleepy. * If your pet is discharged shortly after receiving this medication, keep them in a quiet, comfortable place and monitor their breathing. Contact your vet if they seem excessively drowsy or have difficulty breathing.
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
- Analgesia / Sedation
- Analgesia / Sedation
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Vomiting (common)
- Respiratory depression (especially IV during general anaesthesia)
- Constriction of gastrointestinal sphincters (e.g., pyloric sphincter)
- Reduction in gastrointestinal motility
- Sedation in neonates (crosses placenta)
Cautions & contraindications
- No specific contraindications available, but use with caution in patients with impaired liver function or pregnant animals near parturition.
- Normal safety and handling precautions should be observed. > **Respiratory Monitoring:** Respiratory depression may occur when given IV during general anaesthesia due to increased anaesthetic depth. Respiratory function must be monitored in anaesthetized patients. > **Variable Response:** The response to all opioids is highly variable between individual patients; imperative to assess pain after administration. > **Hepatic Impairment:** Metabolized in the liver; prolonged effects may be seen in patients with impaired liver function. > **Pregnancy:** Crosses the placenta and may exert sedative effects in neonates born to bitches treated prior to parturition.
Drug interactions
- Anaesthetics: Increased CNS or respiratory depression
- Antihistamines: Increased CNS or respiratory depression
- Barbiturates: Increased CNS or respiratory depression
- Phenothiazines (e.g., Acepromazine): Increased CNS or respiratory depression; often used together intentionally for deep sedation
- Tranquillizers: Increased CNS or respiratory depression
Frequently asked questions
What is Papaveretum used for in pets?
Papaveretum is a strong, controlled painkiller used in the veterinary clinic, usually given by injection before or during surgery. * It is very effective at stopping pain but can cause your pet to feel nauseous or vomit. * It may cause your pet to be quite sleepy. * If your pet is discharged shortly after receiving this medication, keep them in a quiet, comfortable place and monitor their breathing. Contact your vet if they seem excessively drowsy or have difficulty breathing.
Is Papaveretum 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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