Ipecac
Ipecac is a botanical emetic traditionally supplied as syrup and containing the alkaloids emetine and cephaeline. It has a historical veterinary application in gastrointestinal decontamination after poisoning. Its clinical role has largely been superseded by other emetics, and the available veterinary evidence is mainly historical rather than based on modern outcome trials.
Group
Historical emetic
Mechanism of Action
Ipecac alkaloids induce vomiting through irritation of the gastric mucosa and stimulation of central emetic pathways, including the chemoreceptor trigger zone. Activation of the coordinated brainstem vomiting response expels some gastric contents. Any reduction in absorbed toxicant depends on the substance, gastric retention and timing rather than chemical neutralization of the poison.
Dose Rates
Dogs
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Historical emetic use | Reference only | PO | Historical syrup amount: 3–6 mL per dog, up to 15 mL in large dogs. Current guidance discourages ipecac; no active calculator regimen is provided. |
Cats
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Historical emetic use | Reference only | PO | Historical syrup amount: 2–6 mL per cat. Current guidance discourages ipecac; no active calculator regimen is provided. |
Indications
- Historical induction of emesis after selected recent oral poisonings in veterinary patients, with limited evidence for improved clinical outcomes.
Contraindications
- Caustic or hydrocarbon ingestion
- Aspiration risk or impaired consciousness
- Repeated use after failed emesis
Interactions
- Antiemetics can suppress its effect and prolong exposure to emetine.
Adverse effects
- Prolonged vomiting
- Mucosal irritation
- Aspiration
- Myocardial toxicity with repeated exposure
Toxicity
Emetine can cause cardiac toxicity. Persistent exposure after failed vomiting requires toxicologic assessment and decontamination planning.
Monitoring and Administration
Do not use as a routine home emetic. Select a more reliable emetic when indicated and provide toxicant-specific care.
Historical amounts were 3–6 mL per dog, up to 15 mL for large dogs, and 2–6 mL per cat. These are retained as historical information, not current treatment recommendations.