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Edrophonium

Prescription
Short-Acting Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitor (Diagnostic Agent)
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

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)
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Diagnostic test for myasthenia gravis — positive test = rapid improvement in mus
Dose
0.1–0.2 mg/kg
Route
IV
Frequency
Single diagnostic dose
🐈

Cat

Same diagnostic principles as dogs
Dose
0.25–0.5 mg/cat
Route
IV
Frequency
Single diagnostic 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

Muscle strength response (positive = improvement within 30 sec)Heart rateRespiratory effortHave atropine ready as reversal
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 →

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Tensilon
Enlon

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.
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 →

References

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
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