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Vecuronium

Prescription
Non-Depolarizing Neuromuscular Blocking Agent
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Interactions
1 documented
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Aminosteroid non-depolarizing NMBA that competitively blocks nicotinic receptors at the neuromuscular junction. Intermediate duration (20–40 min). No histamine release (unlike atracurium). Primarily hepatic elimination.

At a glance

Class
Non-Depolarizing Neuromuscular Blocking Agent
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Refrigerate powder 2–8°C; reconstituted stable 24h at room temperature or 48h refrigerated

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for intraoperative muscle relaxation
Dose
0.05–0.1 mg/kg
Route
IV
Frequency
q15–25 min
🐈

Cat

Lower doses in cats
Dose
0.025–0.05 mg/kg
Route
IV
Frequency
q20–30 min

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength
—

Storage

Refrigerate powder 2–8°C; reconstituted stable 24h at room temperature or 48h refrigerated

Safety

Monitoring parameters

TOF monitoringSpO2 and ETCO2Adequate reversal before extubationVentilation (mandatory)

Interactions

Moderate — 1

Gentamicin (Systemic)
moderate
Same aminoglycoside potentiation of non-depolarizing NMB as with rocuronium.
Management: Reduce NMBA dose. Monitor TOF. Ensure full reversal before extubation.

Brands

Other markets

Norcuron

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Vecuronium?
Vecuronium is a non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent used in pets. Aminosteroid non-depolarizing NMBA that competitively blocks nicotinic receptors at the neuromuscular junction. Intermediate duration (20–40 min). No histamine release (unlike atracurium). Primarily hepatic elimination.
›What is Vecuronium used for in pets?
Vecuronium is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for intraoperative muscle relaxation; Lower doses in cats.
›What is the Vecuronium dose for dogs?
For dogs, Vecuronium is typically dosed as follows — Used for intraoperative muscle relaxation: 0.05–0.1 mg/kg IV q15–25 min. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Vecuronium dose for cats?
For cats, Vecuronium is typically dosed as follows — Lower doses in cats: 0.025–0.05 mg/kg IV q20–30 min. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Vecuronium need a prescription?
Yes. Vecuronium is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

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 (Non-Depolarizing Neuromuscular Blocking Agent).

Atracurium
Rx
Competitive antagonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, preventing muscle depolarization and causing skeletal muscle paralysis. Undergoes Hofmann elimination — organ-independent metabolism.
dogcat
Rocuronium
Rx
Aminosteroid non-depolarizing NMBA that competitively blocks nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction. Fastest onset of non-depolarizing agents (1–2 min). Can be fully reversed by sugammadex (gamma-cyclodextrin — encapsulation reversal).
dogcat