Buprenorphine
Anaesthetics & SedativesAn opioid analgesic, a partial agonist at the mu (µ) opioid receptors. It provides relatively long-lasting relief of moderate pain. A controlled substance in many countries.
Pharmacological information
A class-level scientific overview for general reference — no doses. The ultimate reference is always the locally approved product leaflet and consultation with a veterinarian.
Mechanism of action
An opioid analgesic, a partial agonist at the mu (µ) opioid receptors. It provides relatively long-lasting relief of moderate pain. A controlled substance in many countries.
Indications
- Pain relief after surgery or in painful conditions
- In combination with sedatives within anesthesia protocols
Contraindications & warnings
- Severe respiratory insufficiency
- Caution in hepatic impairment and head injuries
Drug interactions
- Enhanced central and respiratory depression with sedatives and anesthetics
- May reduce the efficacy of full opioid agonists when combined
Human-safety warning
A controlled opioid with potential for abuse; it is stored and documented under narcotics regulations, and accidental self-injection may cause respiratory depression requiring immediate medical care.
Withdrawal periods
| Species | Meat | Milk | Eggs |
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| Horses | — | — | — |
| Species | Meat | Milk | Eggs |
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| Horses | — | — | — |
Recorded adverse effects
openFDA veterinary reports — the numbers are report counts, not a severity rate.
Cats
Dogs
Related products
Sources
- •Withdrawal periods: UK Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD).
- •Adverse effects: the openFDA veterinary database.
- •European Medicines Agency (EMA) — Veterinary medicines
- •Merck Veterinary Manual — Pharmacology
- •Always verify the locally approved leaflet and consult a veterinarian.