Acepromazine Maleate

PetMD’s medications content was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer your most common questions about how medications function, their side effects, and what species they are prescribed for. This content shouldn’t take the place of advice by your vet.

What is Acepromazine Maleate?

Acepromazine maleate is a prescription veterinary sedative and tranquilizer medication. The tablet form is FDA-approved for use in dogs and cats whereas the injectable form is FDA- approved for use in cats, dogs, and horses. It is most commonly used in preparation for anesthesia, because it may lower the amount of general anesthesia your pet may need. The medication should not be used in food-producing animals.

The use of acepromazine in animals other than horses, dogs, and cats is considered off-label.  For example, veterinarians often prescribe acepromazine off-label as a secondary treatment for urinary blockages in cats and for laminitis in horses. The term off- or extra- label use means that a medication is used in a way or in a particular species that is not specified on the medication label.  While veterinarians often prescribe medications for off-label uses, your veterinarian will determine whether acepromazine is right for your pet.

How Acepromazine Works

Acepromazine has a rapid depressant effect on the central nervous system and causes sedation, muscular relaxation, and a reduction in spontaneous activity.  Generally, your veterinarian will consistently monitor your pet when receiving sedation and anesthesia. It does not provide any pain relief.

Acepromazine can also help horses with laminitis by treating vasospasms through its ability to dilate small blood vessels and improve blood circulation.

Certain dogs and breeds of dogs with the MDR1 gene mutation are more sensitive than other pets to this medication. Speak with your veterinarian about alternative medications or a lower dose of acepromazine if your dog has this genetic mutation.

Acepromazine Directions

Follow the directions on the drug label or as provided by your veterinarian. Acepromazine is most often given as an injection in a hospital setting. Speak with your veterinarian regarding specific dosage instructions when providing  acepromazine tablets, which are  generally given 45 minutes to an hour before sedation.

Please contact your veterinarian if you are considering this medication as a sedative for traveling or grooming in a dog or cat, as your veterinarian may discuss alternative medications.

Missed a Dose?

Speak with your veterinarian about what to do if you forget to give a dose of acepromazine. Generally, they may instruct you give it when you remember. Do not give extra or double doses.

Acepromazine Possible Side Effects

Acepromazine is very effective at suppressing the nervous system and should be used only when your pet can be carefully monitored. Possible side effects include:

• Lethargy

• Weakness

• Low blood pressure

• Increased heart rate

• Confusion

• Aggression

• Hyperactivity

• Chewing

• Decreased tear production

• Reverse sneezing

• Seizures

• Protrusion of and/or the inability to retract the penis (Paraphimosis) in horses

Certain dogs and breeds of dogs with the MDR1 gene mutation are more sensitive than other dogs to this medication. Alternative medications or lower doses of acepromazine should be utilized in dogs with this genetic mutation. Additional breeds and pets with underlying diseases may also benefit from alternative medications.

Human Side Effects

While once used in human medicine, this medication is most commonly used now in veterinary medicine. If you accidentally ingest a pet medication, call your physician, seek emergency care, or contact the national Poison Control Center hotline at 800-222-1222. 

Monitoring

Specific monitoring or routine testing while your pet is on this medication may be recommended by your veterinarian depending on your pet’s individual needs, other medications they may be on, and/or the issue that initially caused your pet to be placed on this medication.

Call Your Vet If:

• Severe side effects are seen (see above)

• You see or suspect an overdose

• You pet’s condition worsens or does not improve with treatment.

• You have additional questions or concerns about the use of acepromazine

Acepromazine Overdose Information

Overdoses of acepromazine can cause depression of the nervous system, which can present as excessive sedation/lethargy, severe weakness, pale gums, incoordination, changes in pupil size, agitation, shallow breathing, collapse, or seizures. Accidental intracarotid injection in horses can cause clinical signs ranging from disorientation to convulsive seizures and death.

If you suspect an overdose or an accidental intracarotid injection, immediately contact your veterinarian, seek emergency veterinary care, or contact an animal poison control center. Consultation fees often apply.

Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661

ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435

Acepromazine Storage

Acepromazine should be stored at controlled temperatures between 68-77 F. Brief exposure to temperatures between 59-86 F is acceptable.  Always confirm storage temperatures by reading the label. Keep the container tightly closed in order to protect it from moisture and light.  The injectable form should be used within six months of first puncture.

Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Acepromazine FAQs

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