What is the most important information I should know about Acepromazine:
Acepromazine is a prescription medicine FDA approved for veterinary use in dogs only; however it is a commonly accepted practice for veterinarians to use acepromazine in cats. Acepromazine is available as 10mg and 25mg scored tablets. The usual dose for dogs and cats is 0.25-1 mg/lb. Acepromazine may color the urine pink. Occasionally, this medication may have an opposite effect causing stimulation, therefore this medication should not be used to treat aggression.
What is Acepromazine:
Acepromazine is a phenothiazine tranquilizer used by veterinarians as an aid in tranquilization and before using anesthesia. Acepromazine may also be used for purposes other than those listed.
What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving acepromazine to my pet:
Tell your veterinarian if your pet has liver disease, heart disease, seizure disorders or if the pet is pregnant or lactating. Also mention other CNS medications, such as Phenobarbital, that your pet may be taking.
How should this medication be given:
Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. Acepromazine should be given 45 minutes to 1 hour prior to the procedure for the medication to take effect. If you do not understand the directions ask the pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. Store acepromazine at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss giving a dose:
Give the missed dose as soon as you remember during the same day. However, if you don¿t remember until the next day, skip the dose you missed and give only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not give a double dose of the medication.
What happens if I overdose the pet:
Seek emergency veterinary medical treatment. Symptoms of overdose may include excess drowsiness, slow heart rate and breathing, unsteady movement, unconsciousness, low blood pressure or seizures.
What should I avoid while giving acepromazine to my pet:
Do not give your pet epinephrine or CNS depressant medications such as Phenobarbital.
What are the possible side effects of acepromazine:
Stop giving acepromazine and seek emergency veterinary medical care in the event of rare allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips; tongue; or face; or hives). Other, less serious side effects that have been reported but may resolve with continued treatment. Continue to give acepromazine and notify your veterinarian if your pet show signs of sedation, depression, incoordination, low blood pressure, slower heart rate and breathing. Other side effects may also occur. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to the animal.
What other drugs will affect acepromazine:
Before giving acepromazine, tell your veterinarian if your pet is being given phenytoin, antiarrhythmics such as quinidine and beta blockers such as propranolol. Antidiarrheal medications and antacids may reduce the effectiveness of acepromazine.
Where can I get more information:
Your pharmacist has additional information about acepromazine written for health professionals that you may read. | 
