Apomorphine
Apomorphine is used to induce emesis in dogs after suitable recent ingestions. Emetic selection depends on the substance, airway protection and neurologic status.
Group
Dopamine agonist emetic
Mechanism of Action
Stimulation of dopamine D2 receptors in the chemoreceptor trigger zone provokes vomiting. Swallowed drug has poor bioavailability because of extensive first-pass metabolism.
Dose Rates
Dog
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Induction of emesis | 0.05–0.1 mg/kg | SC | Once | Do not use in: CNS depression, Unprotected airway, Corrosive ingestion, Hydrocarbon or volatile-solvent ingestion, Sharp-object ingestion; Dose is apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate for Apovomin. Give once; use an accurately graduated syringe. Do not use green/discolored solution. |
Indications
- Induction of vomiting in dogs after an ingestion where emesis is appropriate.
Contraindications
- Cats.
- CNS depression, reduced airway protection or a high aspiration risk.
- Ingestion of corrosives, foaming agents, volatile solvents or sharp objects.
- Persistent vomiting or another condition in which emesis is unsafe.
- Hypoxia, dyspnea, seizures, severe weakness or other marked neurologic impairment.
- Circulatory failure, shock or anesthesia.
- Previous treatment with dopamine-antagonist neuroleptics.
- Do not use emesis in rabbits or rodents.
- Ingestion of CNS stimulants can make induced emesis a seizure trigger.
Interactions
- Dopamine antagonists such as phenothiazines and other antiemetics can diminish the response.
- Other CNS depressants may intensify sedation.
- Ondansetron coadministration has caused severe hypotension in humans; avoid assuming the combination is benign.
Adverse effects
- Drowsiness, hypersalivation and transient appetite reduction.
- Injection-site pain.
- Prolonged vomiting, dehydration or cardiovascular changes.
- Conjunctival administration can injure the cornea; any residual material must be removed after emesis.
Toxicity
Monitor emesis, airway protection and recovery. Repeated unsuccessful dosing can increase adverse effects without improving efficacy; a single-administration product should not be redosed. Document and examine recovered material when useful. Successful vomiting does not establish complete decontamination; continue exposure-specific monitoring and treatment. Naloxone can reverse CNS or respiratory depression but may not stop vomiting.
Preparations
| Preparation | Form | Strength | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apovomin 3 mg/mL Strength and dose expressed as apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate; single subcutaneous administration for dogs. | Injection | 3 mg / mL | SC |
