Tertiary amine carbamate that crosses the BBB and reversibly inhibits acetylcholinesterase in both peripheral and central nervous system. Used as antidote for anticholinergic toxicity (atropine, antihistamine, TCA overdose).
At a glance
Class
Reversible Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitor (Carbamate)
Storage
Store at room temperature; protect from light
Dosing
Antidote for anticholinergic syndrome (mydriasis, tachycardia, agitation, urinar
Frequency
q15–30 min (repeat as needed)
Same anticholinergic toxicity antidote use
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 →Safety
Heart ratePupil size (miosis expected)Respiratory effortLevel of consciousnessHave 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.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Physostigmine?
Physostigmine is a reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (carbamate) used in pets. Tertiary amine carbamate that crosses the BBB and reversibly inhibits acetylcholinesterase in both peripheral and central nervous system. Used as antidote for anticholinergic toxicity (atropine, antihistamine, TCA overdose).
›What is Physostigmine used for in pets?
Physostigmine is used in veterinary medicine for: Antidote for anticholinergic syndrome (mydriasis, tachycardia, agitation, urinar; Same anticholinergic toxicity antidote use.
›What is the Physostigmine dose for dogs?
For dogs, Physostigmine is typically dosed as follows — Antidote for anticholinergic syndrome (mydriasis, tachycardia, agitation, urinar: 0.02–0.06 mg/kg IV (slow) q15–30 min (repeat as needed). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Physostigmine dose for cats?
For cats, Physostigmine is typically dosed as follows — Same anticholinergic toxicity antidote use: 0.02–0.04 mg/kg IV q15–30 min. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Physostigmine need a prescription?
Yes. Physostigmine 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