Butorphanol Dog Dosage Calculator (Torbugesic®, Torbutrol®,Dolorex®)

When it comes to managing pain, cough, or sedation in dogs, Butorphanol Tartrate is a widely prescribed medication. It is essential to administer the correct dosage for the specific condition being treated, making a Butorphanol dog dosage calculator an indispensable tool for pet owners and veterinarians. Here, we will cover all aspects of Butorphanol Tartrate dosage for dogs, its uses and the registered brand names you might encounter, such as Torbugesic®, Torbutrol®, and Dolorex®.

Also Explore our other Dog Dosage Calculators.

Warning

Butorphanol is classified as a controlled substance, meaning it is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) in the United States, as well as similar authorities in other countries. Controlled substances are grouped into categories, or “schedules,” based on their potential for abuse. Butorphanol is listed as a Schedule IV drug, indicating it has a lower risk of abuse compared to higher-scheduled drugs. However, it still requires a prescription from a licensed veterinarian with an active DEA license, and refills are closely monitored and regulated.

What is Butorphanol Tartrate?

Butorphanol Tartrate is an opioid agonist-antagonist primarily used in veterinary medicine to manage pain, cough or as a pre-anesthetic in dogs. It acts on the central nervous system to alleviate discomfort without causing severe sedation. Veterinarians may prescribe Butorphanol Tartrate for short-term pain relief, particularly after surgeries or for moderate pain from conditions like arthritis.

Butorphanol Dosage for Dogs

The dosage of Butorphanol Tartrate varies depending on the condition being treated. Because the drug has a dual nature as both an agonist and antagonist, it can effectively manage pain and sedation with fewer side effects compared to pure opioid agonists. Butorphanol Tartrate is available in different forms, such as injectable solutions or tablets, under various brand names like Torbugesic®, Torbutrol®, and Dolorex®.

To ensure your dog receives the correct dosage, using a Butorphanol dog dosage calculator is highly recommended. This tool helps determine the appropriate dose based on your dog’s weight, condition and severity of symptoms.

Standard Dosage of Butorphanol for Dogs

• Pain Management: The typical dosage for pain relief is 0.1 mg/kg to 0.2 mg/kg (0.045 mg/lb to 0.09 mg/lb) every 6 to 12 hours. Pain management may include conditions like post-operative pain or trauma.
• Cough Suppression: For suppressing coughs, Butorphanol Tartrate is often administered at 0.05 mg/kg to 0.1 mg/kg (0.023 mg/lb to 0.045 mg/lb) every 6 to 12 hours.
• Sedation and Pre-anesthetic: As a sedative or pre-anesthetic agent, the dosage may vary between 0.1 mg/kg to 0.4 mg/kg (0.045 mg/lb to 0.18 mg/lb) based on the procedure.

Butorphanol for Dogs Dosage Chart

Factors Influencing Butorphanol Dosage

Several factors can influence the dosage of Butorphanol Tartrate for dogs, including:

• Condition being treated: Pain, cough, or sedation requires different dosages.
• Dog’s weight: Heavier dogs will require larger doses, which is why the Butorphanol dog dosage calculator can be a helpful tool.
• Severity of symptoms: More severe pain or discomfort may necessitate a higher dosage within the recommended range.
• Form of medication: Tablets and injectable solutions may have different concentrations, which will affect the dosage calculation.

How to Administer Butorphanol Tartrate to Dogs

Butorphanol Tartrate is typically administered in the following forms:

• Injectable Solution: This is commonly used for quick relief and is administered by a veterinarian. The brand names Torbugesic® and Dolorex® are frequently used for injectable forms.
• Tablets: Torbutrol® is a common brand name for Butorphanol Tartrate in tablet form, prescribed for pain relief and cough suppression in dogs.

Your veterinarian will determine the best form of administration based on your dog’s condition. It is important to follow their instructions closely, as opioids like Butorphanol Tartrate can be potent and improper dosing may lead to adverse effects.

Understanding the Brands: Torbugesic®, Torbutrol® and Dolorex®

• Torbugesic®: This brand of Butorphanol Tartrate is typically used for injectable solutions and is often administered by veterinarians to treat moderate to severe pain in dogs. It can also be used for sedation in pre-anesthetic protocols.
• Torbutrol®: The tablet form of Butorphanol Tartrate is branded as Torbutrol® and is commonly prescribed for dogs with chronic pain or severe coughing. It is a versatile medication used for different conditions, but the dosage must be carefully calculated.
• Dolorex®: Another injectable form of Butorphanol Tartrate, Dolorex®, is often used for short-term pain management and sedation. Veterinarians may use this brand during procedures or surgeries requiring general anesthesia.

Side Effects of Butorphanol Tartrate in Dogs

While Butorphanol Tartrate is generally considered safe for use in dogs, it is not without potential side effects. The most common side effects include:

• Sedation: Your dog may appear drowsy or lethargic after receiving Butorphanol Tartrate.
• Ataxia: Some dogs experience a lack of coordination or appear wobbly after the medication is administered.
• Vomiting: Gastrointestinal upset is another potential side effect, particularly if the dog has a sensitive stomach.

If your dog exhibits any unusual symptoms or severe reactions, consult your veterinarian immediately.

How Long Should My Dog Be on Butorphanol Tartrate?

The duration of treatment with Butorphanol Tartrate depends on the condition being treated. For pain relief following surgery, the medication may only be needed for a few days, while chronic conditions like arthritis may require longer-term use under veterinary supervision.

If your dog is receiving Butorphanol Tartrate for cough suppression, the treatment period will likely depend on the underlying cause of the cough. Sedation protocols generally involve short-term use around the time of a procedure.

Butorphanol Dog Dosage Calculator

To ensure your dog is getting the correct dosage, using a Butorphanol dog dosage calculator can make the process easier. This calculator takes into account your dog’s weight, the condition being treated, and the severity of the symptoms, providing an accurate dosage range.

For example, if your dog weighs 20 lbs and is being treated for moderate pain, the dosage would be calculated based on 0.1 mg/lb to 0.09 mg/lb. The calculator would also account for factors such as whether the pain is mild, moderate, or severe, ensuring your dog receives the appropriate dose.

Final Thoughts

Butorphanol Tartrate is an effective medication for managing pain, sedation, and cough in dogs, but it must be used with caution. The right dosage is critical, which is why a Butorphanol dog dosage calculator is a helpful tool for dog owners and veterinarians alike. Remember, whether using Torbugesic®, Torbutrol®, or Dolorex®, the dosage should always be tailored to your dog’s specific condition and weight.

Sources and References

1. Caulkett N, Read M, Fowler D, Waldner C. A comparison of the analgesic effects of butorphanol with those of meloxicam after elective ovariohysterectomy in dogs. Can Vet J. 2003 Jul;44(7):565-70. PMID: 12892286; PMCID: PMC340207.
2. Springfield D, KuKanich B, Gray M, KuKanich K, Lai P. Dosing protocols to increase the efficacy of butorphanol in dogs. J Vet Pharmacol Ther. 2022 Nov;45(6):516-529. doi: 10.1111/jvp.13095. Epub 2022 Sep 26. PMID: 36164256; PMCID: PMC10949855.
3. VCA Hospitals/Butorphanol
4. MSD Veterinary Manual/Antitussive Drugs in Animals