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
Safety
SpO2 and ETCO2 continuouslyRespiratory rateHeart rateBlood pressurePain scores
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.
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.
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