Bifunctional alkylating agent that crosslinks DNA strands via alkylation of guanine N-7 positions, interfering with DNA replication and transcription. Has remarkable specificity for myeloid cells (myeloablative) at high doses, used for conditioning before bone marrow transplant.
At a glance
Class
Alkylating Agent (Chemotherapy)
Schedule
Prescription (Chemotherapy)
Storage
Tablets at room temperature; Busulfex refrigerated; diluted IV stable 8h at room temperature; chemotherapy precautions
Dosing
Used for polycythemia vera (when hydroxyurea is ineffective), chronic myelogenou
Safety
CBC weekly (delayed severe myelosuppression risk)Pulmonary function/radiographsHepatic enzymes
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Busulfan?
Busulfan is a alkylating agent (chemotherapy) used in pets. Bifunctional alkylating agent that crosslinks DNA strands via alkylation of guanine N-7 positions, interfering with DNA replication and transcription. Has remarkable specificity for myeloid cells (myeloablative) at high doses, used for conditioning before bone marrow transplant.
›What is Busulfan used for in pets?
Busulfan is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for polycythemia vera (when hydroxyurea is ineffective), chronic myelogenou; Rarely used in cats.
›What is the Busulfan dose for dogs?
For dogs, Busulfan is typically dosed as follows — Used for polycythemia vera (when hydroxyurea is ineffective), chronic myelogenou: 3–4 mg/m² PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Busulfan dose for cats?
For cats, Busulfan is typically dosed as follows — Rarely used in cats: 0.05–0.1 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Busulfan need a prescription?
Yes. Busulfan is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →