Buprenorphine, Long-acting Injection
“This page provides important general information for pet owners whose animals have been prescribed Buprenorphine, Long-acting Injection during a consultation by Dr Noor in Perth.”
Key Information
- Buprenorphine is a strong pain medicine in the opioid family.
- Your veterinarian gives this medicine at the clinic.
- One injection can reduce pain for as long as 28 hours.
- Sleepiness is the side effect seen most often.
Note: This handout is meant to address common questions. It does not include every detail known about this medicine and does not replace guidance from your veterinary care team.
Description
- This is an opioid-type pain medicine.
- It comes as an injection designed to last a long time.
Other common names
- Simbadol
Uses
Uses approved for animals:
- Helping manage pain after surgery in cats.
Your veterinarian may also choose to use this medicine in other kinds of animals or for other purposes (this is called “extra-label use,” meaning it is used in a way not specifically listed).
Before this medication is given
No medicine is completely risk-free for every patient. Talk with your veterinarian about:
- Any other medicines or supplements your pet is taking.
- Any health problems your pet has now, or has had before.
- Any unwanted reactions your pet has had from medicines in the past.
- Possible risks if your pet is pregnant or nursing.
Warnings for animals
This medication should not be used in cats:
- If they have an allergy to this medicine or to other opioid pain medicines.
This medication should be used with caution in cats:
- If they weigh under 2.6 pounds or are younger than 4 months.
- If they have disease affecting the lungs, heart, liver, or kidneys.
- If they have had a head injury.
- If they are pregnant or nursing.
- If they are weak, elderly, or frail.
Warnings for humans
You will not be handling this medication.
How do I give this medication?
You will not be giving this medication. Your veterinarian will administer it at the clinic.
Side effects of Buprenorphine, Long-acting Injection
Common — contact your veterinarian if any of these signs are severe, keep happening, or get worse over time:
- Being unusually sleepy or, in some cases, unusually excitable.
- Constipation (difficulty passing stool).
Severe — contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of these signs:
- Very heavy sleepiness, trouble walking, or stumbling.
- Agitation (acting anxious, nervous, upset, or unable to settle).
- Breathing with an open mouth, gums that look blue, or collapse.
How will I know it's working?
If your animal still seems painful or the pain does not seem well controlled, contact your veterinary clinic.
How long will the medication effects last?
- Your animal should begin to feel better within 1 to 2 hours after the injection.
- This medicine can control pain for up to 28 hours.
- If your animal’s liver does not work as well, the effects may continue for a longer time.
How long do I give it for?
This medication may be given for as long as 3 days.
Overdose
Too much opioid medicine, including buprenorphine, is dangerous. Signs can include:
- very strong tiredness
- trouble standing or walking
- weakness
- trouble breathing
- gums that look pale
If you think an overdose may have happened, contact your veterinarian right away.
Missed dose
You will not be giving this medication.
Storage
You will not be keeping this medication at home.
Disposal
You will not be throwing away this medication at home.
Questions?
Speak with your veterinarian.
“Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided as general educational material only. Every animal’s health situation is unique, and treatment decisions must be based on a full veterinary assessment. Always follow the specific instructions given during your consultation, and contact the prescribing veterinarian if you have any concerns.”