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Detomidine

Prescription

Alpha-2 Adrenergic Agonist / Sedative

Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team

Species

Dog, Cat

Brands

1 available

Interactions

1 documented

Formulations

Mechanism of action

Potent and selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist (similar to medetomidine) that inhibits norepinephrine release, producing profound sedation, analgesia, and muscle relaxation. Primarily licensed for equine use but used off-label in small animals.

At a glance

Class

Alpha-2 Adrenergic Agonist / Sedative

Schedule

Prescription

Storage

Store at room temperature, protect from light

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Off-label in dogs — medetomidine/dexmedetomidine preferred

Dose

10–40 mcg/kg

Route

IM, IV

Frequency

Single sedation dose

🐈

Cat

Off-label in cats

Dose

20–40 mcg/kg

Route

Frequency

Single dose

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 →

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength

—

Storage

Store at room temperature, protect from light

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Heart rate and ECGBlood pressureSpO2Body temperatureLevel of sedation

Educational reference only

Interactions

Moderate — 1

Ketamine

moderate

Same pharmacological combination as dexmedetomidine/medetomidine + ketamine. Synergistic sedation.

Management: Standard combination (primarily equine but used off-label in small animals). Monitor cardiovascular parameters.

Educational reference only

Brands

Other markets

Dormosedan

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Detomidine?

Detomidine is a alpha-2 adrenergic agonist / sedative used in pets. Potent and selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist (similar to medetomidine) that inhibits norepinephrine release, producing profound sedation, analgesia, and muscle relaxation. Primarily licensed for equine use but used off-label in small animals.

›What is Detomidine used for in pets?

Detomidine is used in veterinary medicine for: Off-label in dogs — medetomidine/dexmedetomidine preferred; Off-label in cats.

›What is the Detomidine dose for dogs?

For dogs, Detomidine is typically dosed as follows — Off-label in dogs — medetomidine/dexmedetomidine preferred: 10–40 mcg/kg IM/IV Single sedation dose. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›What is the Detomidine dose for cats?

For cats, Detomidine is typically dosed as follows — Off-label in cats: 20–40 mcg/kg IM Single dose. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›Does Detomidine need a prescription?

Yes. Detomidine is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

Educational reference only

References

The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.

Textbooks & handbooks — 5

Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
Merck Veterinary Manual
NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)

Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
RECOVER CPR Guidelines

Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2

EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
JVIM FAT CAT Study

Regulatory & approvals — 1

CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)

Databases — 1

Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database