Dipyrone
General Drug Information and Indications
Analgesic/antipyretic/antispasmodic (metamizole) for pain and fever in horses and dogs; colic pain and musculoskeletal inflammation.
Pyrazolone analgesic/antipyretic/antispasmodic (metamizole sodium). Mechanism: inhibits COX enzymes (weak) and activates cannabinoid CB1 receptors; also direct spasmolytic effect on smooth muscle via phosphodiesterase inhibition. Metabolized to active 4-aminoantipyrine. Analgesic and antipyretic without significant anti-inflammatory effect at standard doses.
Key information
Metamizole — analgesic/antipyretic/spasmolytic. Not FDA-approved in US; used in horses off-label. Associated with agranulocytosis in humans — wear gloves. Not for use in food animals.
How to Give this Medication
Injectable: administer IV (slowly) or IM. IV: inject slowly over 1–2 min; rapid administration may cause hypotension. Oral (compounded liquid): Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
Administer as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule. Never double up doses to make up for a missed one.
Side Effects
GI: anorexia, nausea, vomiting. Cardiovascular: hypotension (rapid IV). Agranulocytosis (rare idiosyncratic reaction — aplastic anemia described in humans; monitor CBC with prolonged use). Anaphylaxis (rare). Horses: generally well tolerated at labeled doses.
Precautions
For animals
Not FDA-approved in the US. Avoid in patients with known hematologic disorders. Monitor CBC with prolonged use. Not approved for use in food-producing animals. Use with caution in pregnant animals.
For people handling this medication
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. after handling. Not approved for human use in the US — avoid ingestion.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. Dipyrone overdose causes GI signs and blood abnormalities. Contact vet for guidance.
Dipyrone dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DIPYRONE 500MG/ML SOLUTION - 10 ML | 500 MG/ML | Solution | 10 ML | Compound |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)