Acepromazine Maleate (PromAce®)

Acepromazine for Dogs & Cats

Acepromazine (acepromazine maleate/PromAce®) is a medication primarily used to sedate pets. Veterinary teams commonly prescribe it for short-term situations such as travel or post-injury rest.

It’s important to know that acepromazine isn’t an anxiety medication and doesn’t effectively treat anxiety-related conditions such as separation anxiety or phobias.

Acepromazine Dosing & Administration

Veterinary teams generally use acepromazine on an as-needed basis. Unless directed by a veterinary team, a pet shouldn’t receive acepromazine more frequently than every eight hours.

Monitoring & Duration of use

Acepromazine is typically used for short-term care, not extending beyond a few weeks. Some pets become accustomed to the medication over time, which may lead to dosage adjustments. Contact a veterinarian to discuss any changes in dosing.

Potential Acepromazine Side Effects in Dogs & Cats

Sedation

Sedation is the most common side effect of acepromazine. In some cases, especially in less tolerant pets or when combined with other medications, sedation can be excessive and may cause dizziness or difficulty walking. Most pets recover with time, but veterinary advice should be sought if you have any concerns.

In high doses, acepromazine can cause low blood pressure and a slow heart rate, although this is rare with standard oral doses. If a pet becomes unresponsive, seek urgent veterinary care.

Seizures & Acepromazine

Historically, there were concerns that acepromazine might cause seizures. However, several studies, along with Dr. Jurney’s personal experience, have demonstrated that acepromazine doesn’t increase seizure risk. Dr. Jurney now considers it safe to use in patients with seizures.

Dysphoria

Dysphoria, which can include abnormal activity or vocalizations, may occur with sedatives, particularly when combined with pain medications. Symptoms may include frantic vocalizations such as whining or crying, and pets may appear agitated, similar to a “rowdy drunk.”

A calm, quiet environment can help while the medication wears off. If signs of dysphoria occur, a dosage adjustment, a different medication combination, or an alternative medication may be needed. If you have concerns or would like to discuss changes to your pet’s medication, contact your veterinarian.

Boxer Breed Caution

There are reports of fainting and heart arrhythmias with the use of acepromazine in Boxers. For this reason, veterinary teams advise caution when using this medication in the breed.

Acepromazine FAQs

  • No. Acepromazine is primarily used as a sedative. It doesn’t effectively treat anxiety-related conditions such as separation anxiety or phobias.

  • Veterinary teams generally use acepromazine on an as-needed basis. Unless directed, your pet shouldn’t receive acepromazine more frequently than every eight hours.

  • Sedation is the most common side effect of acepromazine. In some cases, especially in less tolerant pets or when combined with other medications, sedation can be excessive and may cause dizziness or difficulty walking. If concerns arise, seek veterinary advice.

  • In high doses, acepromazine can cause low blood pressure and a slow heart rate, although this is rare with standard oral doses. If a pet becomes unresponsive, seek urgent veterinary care.

  • Historically, there were concerns about seizures. However, several studies, along with Dr. Jurney’s personal experience, have demonstrated that acepromazine doesn’t increase seizure risk. Dr. Jurney now considers it safe to use in patients with seizures.