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Esmolol

Prescription
Ultra-Short-Acting Cardioselective Beta-1 Blocker
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Interactions
2 documented
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Selective beta-1 antagonist with ultra-short half-life (~9 min) due to rapid ester hydrolysis. Ideal for acute rate control in tachyarrhythmias.

At a glance

Class
Ultra-Short-Acting Cardioselective Beta-1 Blocker
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature; stable 24h after dilution

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for acute SVT, atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response
Dose
0.05–0.5 mg/kg
Route
IV bolus + CRI
Frequency
Continuous
🐈

Cat

Used for acute feline tachyarrhythmias
Dose
0.05–0.5 mg/kg
Route
IV
Frequency
Continuous

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength
—

Storage

Store at room temperature; stable 24h after dilution

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Continuous ECGBlood pressure q5 min during titrationHeart rateRespiratory effort

Interactions

Contraindicated — 1

Verapamil
contraindicated
IV beta-blocker + IV non-DHP calcium channel blocker: synergistic negative inotropy, chronotropy, dromotropy causing asystole or cardiac arrest.
Management: NEVER give IV esmolol and IV verapamil. Wait adequate time between if sequential use needed.

Major — 1

Diltiazem
major
Additive AV nodal depression and negative inotropy. Risk of severe bradycardia and heart failure.
Management: Avoid concurrent IV use. If both needed for SVT, use under cardiologist supervision with continuous ECG and have pacing available.

Brands

Other markets

Brevibloc

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Esmolol?
Esmolol is a ultra-short-acting cardioselective beta-1 blocker used in pets. Selective beta-1 antagonist with ultra-short half-life (~9 min) due to rapid ester hydrolysis. Ideal for acute rate control in tachyarrhythmias.
›What is Esmolol used for in pets?
Esmolol is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for acute SVT, atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response; Used for acute feline tachyarrhythmias.
›What is the Esmolol dose for dogs?
For dogs, Esmolol is typically dosed as follows — Used for acute SVT, atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response: 0.05–0.5 mg/kg IV bolus + CRI Continuous. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Esmolol dose for cats?
For cats, Esmolol is typically dosed as follows — Used for acute feline tachyarrhythmias: 0.05–0.5 mg/kg IV Continuous. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Esmolol need a prescription?
Yes. Esmolol 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 →