Yohimbine
Also known as: Yobine, Antagonil, Aphrodyne, Dayto Himbin, Pluriviron mono, Prowess Plain, Urobine, Virigen, Yocon, Yocoral, Yohimex, Yomax, Zumba
This medication is strictly for use under **direct veterinary supervision**, typically in a clinic or hospital setting. - **Purpose:** Used to quickly 'wake up' pets after sedation with certain drugs (like xylazine) or to treat toxicity from tick dips/collars containing amitraz. - **What to Expect:** Your pet may wake up very suddenly. Brief periods of anxiety, panting, drooling, or muscle tremors are normal as the drug takes effect and usually resolve quickly. - **Pain Management:** Because this drug reverses sedation, it also reverses pain relief. Your veterinarian will ensure other pain medications are given if your pet had a surgical or painful procedure.
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
- Xylazine reversal (Llamas/Camelids)
- Xylazine reversal
- Xylazine reversal (Routine/Emergency)
- Xylazine reversal
- Alpha2-adrenergic agonist reversal (e.g., xylazine)
- Xylazine reversal (Rabbits)
- Xylazine reversal (Mice/Rats)
- Xylazine reversal
- Medetomidine reversal
- Amitraz toxicity reversal (centrally mediated bradycardia/hypotension)
- Amitraz toxicity (demodicosis treatment)
- Prevention of side effects from amitraz dips
- Antiemetic
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Transient apprehension or anxiety
- CNS excitement
- Muscle tremors
- Hypersalivation
- Increased respiratory rate (panting)
- Hyperemic (red) mucous membranes
- Tachycardia
Cautions & contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to yohimbine
- Renal disease (extrapolated from human medicine)
- Patients with active seizure disorders
- **Seizure Disorders:** Use with extreme caution as yohimbine can lower the seizure threshold and induce tremors or convulsions. **Renal Impairment:** Contraindicated in humans with renal disease; use cautiously in veterinary patients with compromised kidney function. > **Important Clinical Pearl - Analgesia Loss:** Reversing xylazine or other alpha-2 agonists will simultaneously remove any provided analgesia. Normal pain perception will return immediately. Ensure alternative pain management (e.g., opioids, NSAIDs) is on board before administration if the patient underwent a painful procedure.
Drug interactions
- Tricyclic Antidepressants: May cause severe hypertension; concurrent use is not recommended.
- Other Alpha-2 Antagonists: Additive antagonistic effects; use with caution.
- CNS Stimulants: Additive CNS stimulation and increased risk of seizures or severe agitation.
Frequently asked questions
What is Yohimbine used for in pets?
This medication is strictly for use under **direct veterinary supervision**, typically in a clinic or hospital setting. - **Purpose:** Used to quickly 'wake up' pets after sedation with certain drugs (like xylazine) or to treat toxicity from tick dips/collars containing amitraz. - **What to Expect:** Your pet may wake up very suddenly. Brief periods of anxiety, panting, drooling, or muscle tremors are normal as the drug takes effect and usually resolve quickly. - **Pain Management:** Because this drug reverses sedation, it also reverses pain relief. Your veterinarian will ensure other pain medications are given if your pet had a surgical or painful procedure.
Is Yohimbine 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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