Side Effects of Buprenex in Felines

Buprenex, the brand name of buprenorphine, is an opiate used to relieve pain, typically after surgery. Though the drug has no veterinary formulations, the human formulation has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for extra-label use in felines. Buprenex is usually injected, but for home use it can be given orally in a drop or spray. One dose is effective for approximately six hours in cats, and the possible side effects are common to most opiates.

  1. Drug Interaction

    • If your cat is taking certain other classes of medications, Buprenex may cause undesirable and dangerous side effects. Make sure your veterinarian knows if your cat is taking tranquilizers, antihistamines, barbiturates or monoamine oxidase inhibitors.

    Sedation

    • The most common side effect of Buprenex in cats is sedation. According to Dr. Wendy C. Brooks, DVM, your cat may become sluggish and tired after ingesting the drug. Buprenex may also slow your cat's heart rate, blood pressure and respiratory system.

    Naloxone

    • Naloxone is an opiate antagonist with the common brand name Narcan. According to Dr. Nicholas Dodman, Professor at Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Naloxone can be prescribed by your veterinarian to counteract the side effects of Buprenex in your cat.