International reference: 1 US FDA recall for this ingredient
Lack of Assurance of Sterility: FDA inspection findings resulted in concerns regarding quality control processes (detomidine)
US-market enforcement records (OpenFDA), shown for reference - not specific to this product in Zambia.
Dormosedan Injection 5ml
Detomidine Hydrochloride
What it does
Detomidine is a medication used primarily in veterinary medicine as a sedative and analgesic to calm animals during procedures.
Commonly used for: sedation in animals, pain relief in animals
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-06-28 06:27:28 · updated 2026-10-19 03:39:58
About this medicine
Detomidine is a medication used primarily in veterinary medicine as a sedative and analgesic to calm animals during procedures.
What it treats
- sedation in animals
- pain relief in animals
How it works
Detomidine works by slowing down the nervous system, which helps to relax animals and relieve pain.
Who it's for
This medication is used for animals that need sedation or pain management during medical procedures.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: detomidine
BNF-referencedDetomidine is a potent alpha-2 adrenergic agonist primarily used in veterinary medicine as a sedative and analgesic agent. It is effective for sedation in horses and other large animals, providing both tranquillization and pain relief. Detomidine acts on the central nervous system, leading to a decrease in sympathetic outflow and sedation.
Indications
- Sedation in horses
- Analgesia in veterinary practices
- Pre-anesthetic medication
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific paediatric dosing information.
Adults: The typical adult dose for sedation is 10-20 micrograms/kg intravenously or intramuscularly, adjusted based on the clinical response.
Mechanism of action
Detomidine selectively binds to alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, specifically subtypes A and B. This binding inhibits the release of norepinephrine, resulting in decreased sympathetic nervous system activity. The sedative effects are mediated through the activation of imidazoline receptors and inhibition of adenylate cyclase activity, leading to reduced neuronal excitability.
Pharmacodynamics
Detomidine produces sedation, analgesia, and muscle relaxation. Its effects are dose-dependent, with higher doses resulting in deeper sedation and longer duration of action. The drug's analgesic properties are beneficial during surgical procedures or in cases of colic in horses.
Pharmacokinetics
Detomidine is rapidly absorbed when administered intravenously or intramuscularly. The onset of sedation typically occurs within minutes, with peak effects seen around 30 minutes post-administration. The drug is metabolized in the liver, primarily by conjugation to inactive metabolites, and excreted via urine. The elimination half-life varies, generally within 1 to 2 hours.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to detomidine or any of its components
- Severe cardiovascular disease
- Severe respiratory disease
- Pregnant or lactating animals
Adverse effects
- Sedation
- Ataxia
- Bradycardia
- Hypotension
- Respiratory depression
- Gastrointestinal effects such as vomiting
Interactions
- Other sedatives and anesthetics may enhance the effects of detomidine
- Opioids may have additive effects when used with detomidine
- Alpha-2 adrenergic agonists may interact with detomidine
Precautions
- Use with caution in geriatric or debilitated patients
- Monitor cardiovascular and respiratory function closely
- Adjust dosage for individual animals based on their response
Pregnancy
Detomidine is contraindicated in pregnant animals as it can cause adverse effects on the fetus.
Breast-feeding
The safety of detomidine in lactating animals has not been established, use with caution.
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light, and keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Injectable solution
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Molecular reference: detomidine
PubChem CID 56032Molecular formula: C12H14N2
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.