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Yohimbine

Prescription
Alpha-2 Adrenergic Antagonist (Reversal Agent)
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Competitive alpha-2 adrenergic receptor antagonist derived from Pausinystalia yohimbe bark. Reverses xylazine and other alpha-2 agonist sedation by displacing agonist from receptors. Less selective than atipamezole.

At a glance

Class
Alpha-2 Adrenergic Antagonist (Reversal Agent)
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Reverses xylazine sedation
Dose
0.25–0.5 mg/kg
Route
IV, IM
Frequency
Single reversal dose; may repeat in 15 min if needed
🐈

Cat

Reverses xylazine
Dose
0.1 mg/kg
Route
IV, IM
Frequency
Single reversal dose
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 →

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature, protect from light

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Level of arousal within 5–10 minHeart rateBlood pressureTremors/seizures
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.

Brands

Other markets

Yobine

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Yohimbine?
Yohimbine is a alpha-2 adrenergic antagonist (reversal agent) used in pets. Competitive alpha-2 adrenergic receptor antagonist derived from Pausinystalia yohimbe bark. Reverses xylazine and other alpha-2 agonist sedation by displacing agonist from receptors. Less selective than atipamezole.
What is Yohimbine used for in pets?
Yohimbine is used in veterinary medicine for: Reverses xylazine sedation; Reverses xylazine.
What is the Yohimbine dose for dogs?
For dogs, Yohimbine is typically dosed as follows — Reverses xylazine sedation: 0.25–0.5 mg/kg IV/IM Single reversal dose; may repeat in 15 min if needed. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Yohimbine dose for cats?
For cats, Yohimbine is typically dosed as follows — Reverses xylazine: 0.1 mg/kg IV/IM Single reversal dose. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Yohimbine need a prescription?
Yes. Yohimbine 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

Related medicines

Other medicines in the same class (Alpha-2 Adrenergic Antagonist).

Atipamezole
Rx
Selective and potent alpha-2 adrenergic receptor antagonist that competitively reverses the sedative, analgesic, and cardiovascular effects of alpha-2 agonists such as medetomidine and dexmedetomidine
dogcat
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