Ultra-short-acting reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (duration 5–10 min) used diagnostically in the Tensilon test for myasthenia gravis. Temporarily improves muscle strength if weakness is due to MG.
At a glance
Class
Short-Acting Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitor (Diagnostic Agent)
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light
Dosing
Diagnostic test for myasthenia gravis — positive test = rapid improvement in mus
Frequency
Single diagnostic dose
Same diagnostic principles as dogs
Frequency
Single diagnostic dose
Safety
Muscle strength response (positive = improvement within 30 sec)Heart rateRespiratory effortHave atropine ready as reversal
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Edrophonium?
Edrophonium is a short-acting acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (diagnostic agent) used in pets. Ultra-short-acting reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (duration 5–10 min) used diagnostically in the Tensilon test for myasthenia gravis. Temporarily improves muscle strength if weakness is due to MG.
›What is Edrophonium used for in pets?
Edrophonium is used in veterinary medicine for: Diagnostic test for myasthenia gravis — positive test = rapid improvement in mus; Same diagnostic principles as dogs.
›What is the Edrophonium dose for dogs?
For dogs, Edrophonium is typically dosed as follows — Diagnostic test for myasthenia gravis — positive test = rapid improvement in mus: 0.1–0.2 mg/kg IV Single diagnostic dose. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Edrophonium dose for cats?
For cats, Edrophonium is typically dosed as follows — Same diagnostic principles as dogs: 0.25–0.5 mg/cat IV Single diagnostic dose. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Edrophonium need a prescription?
Yes. Edrophonium 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.
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