Synthetic phenylpiperidine mu-opioid receptor agonist approximately 5–10x more potent than fentanyl and 500–1000x more potent than morphine. Ultra-rapid onset (<1 min IV). Used intraoperatively for balanced anesthesia.
At a glance
Class
Ultra-Potent Opioid Analgesic
Schedule
Controlled Substance
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light; controlled substance secure storage
Dosing
Used for intraoperative analgesia in major surgery (cardiac, neurosurgery, ortho
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
SpO2 and ETCO2 continuouslyRespiratory rateHeart rateBlood pressurePain scores
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 Sufentanil?
Sufentanil is a ultra-potent opioid analgesic used in pets. Synthetic phenylpiperidine mu-opioid receptor agonist approximately 5–10x more potent than fentanyl and 500–1000x more potent than morphine. Ultra-rapid onset (<1 min IV). Used intraoperatively for balanced anesthesia.
›What is Sufentanil used for in pets?
Sufentanil is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for intraoperative analgesia in major surgery (cardiac, neurosurgery, ortho; Same intraoperative use.
›What is the Sufentanil dose for dogs?
For dogs, Sufentanil is typically dosed as follows — Used for intraoperative analgesia in major surgery (cardiac, neurosurgery, ortho: 0.5–2 mcg/kg IV Bolus or CRI. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Sufentanil dose for cats?
For cats, Sufentanil is typically dosed as follows — Same intraoperative use: 0.5–1 mcg/kg IV Bolus or CRI. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Sufentanil need a prescription?
Sufentanil is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
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