I’ve decided to go down a (giant) rabbit hole and start learning about common medications in a veterinary clinic… because what else would I do while waiting on vet school decisions??
What is ACE?
Today we’re starting with Acepromazine — also known as ACE. This is a sedative and tranquilizer almost exclusively used on animals. Typically a veterinarian will prescribe ACE in order to calm your pet. Whether that is due to anxiety (from vet visits or thunderstorms), blockages in cats, laminitis in horses, or as a sedative or pre-anesthetic.
How Is It Given?
ACE can be given in multiple ways: in the vein (IV), in the muscle (IM), under the skin (SC), or via the mouth (PO). In the office I work at, we often give out this medication via pills. Usually, a few pills are sent home and the owner is asked to give the medication 60-90 minutes prior to the next appointment or traumatic event. According to the researchers, ACE should be given 45 minutes prior to the event or procedure.
Dosing:
| Animal: | Dose: |
| Dog | 0.05 – 0.1 mg/kg when given IV/IM/SC 0.55 – 2.2 mg/kg PO |
| Cat | 0.11 – 0.22 mg/kg IV/IM/SC 1.1 – 2.2 mg/kg PO |
| Horse | 0.04 – 0.1 mg/kg/day IV/IM/SC/PO |
Side Effects
One of the most common side effects of ACE is lethargy. Obviously, your pet will be given a sedative so when the medication is wearing off they may be drowsy. However, the opposite can happen. Some animals may become hyperactive or aggressive. Low blood pressure and urine discoloration (pinkish to brownish) may also occur. In extreme cases, cardiovascular collapse may occur. If you notice anything out of normal happening to your pet, reach out to your veterinarian ASAP.
When to Be Cautious
Animals who are exposed to organophosphates, strychnine, or procaine should not be put on ACE. Those with heart disease, low blood pressure, dehydration, tetanus, or shock should also not be put on ACE. Complications may occur.
Pets who are pregnant, have liver or heart disease, or have clotting problems or low platelets should avoid using ACE. In some cases, the use of this medication may be okay.
If your pet is on any other medication including acetaminophen, antacids, antidiarrheals, central nervous system (CNS) depressants, dopamine, fluoxetine, metronidazole, NSAIDs, or others let your veterinarian know as these may cause unwanted side effects.
Conclusion
For most pets, ACE may be used for traumatic/stress-inducing events. Make sure to use as prescribed by your veterinarian and if you notice any unusual behavior in your pet don’t hesitate to contact your vet. Feel free to check out the links below for more information!
Sources
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/acepromazine
https://www.petmd.com/pet-medication/acepromazine-maleate
https://www.wedgewood.com/medications/acepromazine-maleate/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acepromazine