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pen-TAZ-oh-seen - Pronunciation guide
Brand Names
Description
Pentazocine is a synthetic partial opiate agonist available as two separate salts. The hydrochloric salt found in oral dosage forms is a white, crystalline powder that is soluble in water and also in alcohol. The commercial injection is prepared from a pentazocine base with the assistance of lactic acid. Pentazocine exhibits many of the same characteristics as the true opiate agonists. After absorption, the drug is distributed widely into tissues. In horses, it has been shown to be 80% bound to plasma proteins.
Usage
In addition to symptomatic relief of pain in horses with colic, pentazocine is used in the amelioration of pain during postoperative recovery from fractures, trauma, and spinal disorders.
Dosage and Administration
Dosage for analgesia
| Method | Amount | Dosage | Period | Duration | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IV | 0.33 | mg/kg | Treatment | In cases of severe pain, a second dose may be given IM 15 minutes later, per package insert. | |
| IV | 0.4 - 0.8 | mg/kg | Treatment | (Muir 1987) | |
| IV, IM or SQ | 0.33 - 0.66 | mg/kg | Treatment | (Jenkins 1987) | |
| IV | 0.4 - 0.9 | mg/kg | Treatment | (Thurmon and Benson 1987) |
Note: Duration of analgesia may last only 10-30 minutes following IV dose.
Side Effects
Horses may develop transient ataxia and symptoms of central nervous system excitement. Pulse and respiratory rates may become elevated.
Precautions
Pentazocine should only be used in combination with a sedative, such as xylazine or detomidine.
Pentazocine should not be used in place of appropriate treatment for colic in horses.
Pentazocine should not be used in debilitated horses.
Pentazocine is FDA approved for use in horses and is a prescription drug to be used or prescribed by a licensed veterinarian.
Pentazocine is a prohibited substance in most sanctioned competitions. Check with the individual regulatory group.
Interactions
When used with pentazocine, other central nervous system depressants/anesthetic agents may cause increased CNS or respiratory depression. Dosage may need to be decreased. Always consult with a veterinarian.
Overdose
Little information regarding acute overdose with pentazocine is available. For oral ingestion, the gut should be emptied, if indicated and safe to do so. Naloxone may help relieve overdose effects.
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