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Meperidine (Pethidine)

Opioid Analgesic (Synthetic Phenylpiperidine)
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Interactions
1 documented
Formulations
3

Mechanism of action

Synthetic mu-opioid receptor agonist approximately 1/10th the potency of morphine. Also has local anesthetic properties (sodium channel blockade) and anticholinergic effects. No histamine release (unlike morphine). Short duration (1–2h).

At a glance

Class
Opioid Analgesic (Synthetic Phenylpiperidine)
Schedule
Controlled Substance
Storage
Store at room temperature; controlled substance storage

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Short-acting analgesic for brief procedures
Dose
3–5 mg/kg
Route
IM, IV, SQ
Frequency
q2–3h
🐈

Cat

Mild analgesic in cats
Dose
2–5 mg/kg
Route
IM
Frequency
q2–4h

Formulations

💊

Other — 3

Strength
—
Strength
—
Strength
—

Storage

Store at room temperature; controlled substance storage

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Respiratory ratePain scoresNeurological status (seizures with renal impairment)Duration of analgesia (very short)

Interactions

Contraindicated — 1

Selegiline (L-Deprenyl)
contraindicated
Meperidine + MAO inhibitor: potentially fatal serotonergic crisis with hyperthermia, rigidity, seizures, cardiovascular collapse.
Management: ABSOLUTE CONTRAINDICATION. Never combine meperidine with any MAO inhibitor. Use alternative opioid (morphine, hydromorphone).

Brands

Other markets

Demerol

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Meperidine (Pethidine)?
Meperidine (Pethidine) is a opioid analgesic (synthetic phenylpiperidine) used in pets. Synthetic mu-opioid receptor agonist approximately 1/10th the potency of morphine. Also has local anesthetic properties (sodium channel blockade) and anticholinergic effects. No histamine release (unlike morphine). Short duration (1–2h).
›What is Meperidine (Pethidine) used for in pets?
Meperidine (Pethidine) is used in veterinary medicine for: Short-acting analgesic for brief procedures; Mild analgesic in cats.
›What is the Meperidine (Pethidine) dose for dogs?
For dogs, Meperidine (Pethidine) is typically dosed as follows — Short-acting analgesic for brief procedures: 3–5 mg/kg IM/IV/SQ q2–3h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Meperidine (Pethidine) dose for cats?
For cats, Meperidine (Pethidine) is typically dosed as follows — Mild analgesic in cats: 2–5 mg/kg IM q2–4h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Meperidine (Pethidine) need a prescription?
Meperidine (Pethidine) is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.

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 (Opioid Analgesic).

Morphine Sulfate
Prototype full mu-opioid receptor agonist providing potent analgesia, sedation, and euphoria. Metabolized to active morphine-6-glucuronide (analgesic) and morphine-3-glucuronide (neuroexcitatory, poorly analgesic). Variable histamine release on IV bolus.
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