Prodrug rapidly converted to nordazepam, a long-acting benzodiazepine that enhances GABA-A receptor function providing anticonvulsant and anxiolytic effects.
At a glance
Class
Benzodiazepine Anticonvulsant / Anxiolytic
Schedule
Controlled Substance
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from moisture and light
Dosing
Adjunct anticonvulsant with phenobarbital
Frequency
q12h or as needed
Less commonly used in cats
Safety
Seizure frequencySedation levelHepatic enzymesBody weight
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Clorazepate?
Clorazepate is a benzodiazepine anticonvulsant / anxiolytic used in pets. Prodrug rapidly converted to nordazepam, a long-acting benzodiazepine that enhances GABA-A receptor function providing anticonvulsant and anxiolytic effects.
›What is Clorazepate used for in pets?
Clorazepate is used in veterinary medicine for: Adjunct anticonvulsant with phenobarbital; Less commonly used in cats.
›What is the Clorazepate dose for dogs?
For dogs, Clorazepate is typically dosed as follows — Adjunct anticonvulsant with phenobarbital: 0.5–2 mg/kg PO q12h or as needed. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Clorazepate dose for cats?
For cats, Clorazepate is typically dosed as follows — Less commonly used in cats: 0.5–1 mg/kg PO q12–24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Clorazepate need a prescription?
Clorazepate is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
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.
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