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Hydrocodone

Opioid Antitussive / Analgesic

Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team

Species

Dog, Cat

Brands

2 available

Interactions

2 documented

Formulations

Mechanism of action

Semi-synthetic opioid derived from codeine that acts on mu-opioid receptors in the brainstem cough center, suppressing the cough reflex. Also provides mild-to-moderate analgesia. More potent antitussive than codeine or dextromethorphan.

At a glance

Class

Opioid Antitussive / Analgesic

Schedule

Controlled Substance

Storage

Store at room temperature; controlled substance storage

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for chronic cough suppression (collapsing trachea, chronic bronchitis, kenn

Dose

0.22 mg/kg

Route

Frequency

q6–12h

🐈

Cat

Not recommended in cats

Dose

—

Route

Frequency

N/A

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 — 2

Strength

—

Strength

—

Storage

Store at room temperature; controlled substance storage

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Cough frequencyRespiratory rateSedation levelGI motility

Educational reference only

Interactions

Major — 1

Selegiline (L-Deprenyl)

major

Opioid + MAO inhibitor: risk of serotonin syndrome and enhanced CNS/respiratory depression.

Management: Avoid. Use non-opioid antitussive if cough suppressant needed with selegiline.

Moderate — 1

Acepromazine

moderate

Additive CNS depression and sedation. Hydrocodone + acepromazine: monitor for excessive sedation and respiratory depression.

Management: Reduce doses. Monitor respiratory rate and sedation.

Educational reference only

Brands

Other markets

Hycodan

Tussigon (with homatropine)

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Hydrocodone?

Hydrocodone is a opioid antitussive / analgesic used in pets. Semi-synthetic opioid derived from codeine that acts on mu-opioid receptors in the brainstem cough center, suppressing the cough reflex. Also provides mild-to-moderate analgesia. More potent antitussive than codeine or dextromethorphan.

›What is Hydrocodone used for in pets?

Hydrocodone is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for chronic cough suppression (collapsing trachea, chronic bronchitis, kenn; Not recommended in cats.

›What is the Hydrocodone dose for dogs?

For dogs, Hydrocodone is typically dosed as follows — Used for chronic cough suppression (collapsing trachea, chronic bronchitis, kenn: 0.22 mg/kg PO q6–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›What is the Hydrocodone dose for cats?

For cats, Hydrocodone is typically dosed as follows — Not recommended in cats: undefined undefined PO N/A. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›Does Hydrocodone need a prescription?

Hydrocodone is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.

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