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Dipyrone (Metamizole)

Prescription
Pyrazolone Analgesic / Antipyretic / Antispasmodic
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Formulations
3

Mechanism of action

Prodrug hydrolyzed to active metabolites (4-methylaminoantipyrine, 4-aminoantipyrine) that inhibit COX-1 and COX-2 centrally and peripherally, reduce prostaglandin synthesis, and have antispasmodic effects on smooth muscle. Potent antipyretic.

At a glance

Class
Pyrazolone Analgesic / Antipyretic / Antispasmodic
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Excellent antipyretic and analgesic
Dose
25–50 mg/kg
Route
IV, IM, SQ, PO
Frequency
q8h
🐈

Cat

Lower frequency in cats due to slower metabolism
Dose
25 mg/kg
Route
IV, SQ
Frequency
q12–24h

Formulations

💊

Other — 3

Strength
Strength
Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature, protect from light

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Temperature responseCBC with prolonged useBlood pressure (IV administration)Pain scores

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Novalgin
Dipirona

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Dipyrone (Metamizole)?
Dipyrone (Metamizole) is a pyrazolone analgesic / antipyretic / antispasmodic used in pets. Prodrug hydrolyzed to active metabolites (4-methylaminoantipyrine, 4-aminoantipyrine) that inhibit COX-1 and COX-2 centrally and peripherally, reduce prostaglandin synthesis, and have antispasmodic effects on smooth muscle. Potent antipyretic.
What is Dipyrone (Metamizole) used for in pets?
Dipyrone (Metamizole) is used in veterinary medicine for: Excellent antipyretic and analgesic; Lower frequency in cats due to slower metabolism.
What is the Dipyrone (Metamizole) dose for dogs?
For dogs, Dipyrone (Metamizole) is typically dosed as follows — Excellent antipyretic and analgesic: 25–50 mg/kg IV/IM/SQ/PO q8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Dipyrone (Metamizole) dose for cats?
For cats, Dipyrone (Metamizole) is typically dosed as follows — Lower frequency in cats due to slower metabolism: 25 mg/kg IV/SQ q12–24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Dipyrone (Metamizole) need a prescription?
Yes. Dipyrone (Metamizole) 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 →

Related medicines

Other medicines in the same class (Pyrazolone Analgesic / Antipyretic / Antispasmodic).

Metamizole (Dipyrone)
Rx
Inhibits COX-3 (central) and blocks prostaglandin synthesis; also has direct smooth muscle spasmolytic effects; widely used in Indian veterinary practice
dogcat