Pentoject

To effect, usually 0.4 ml/kg in debilitated or elderly animals, or 0.6-0.8 ml/kg in younger or more fit animals. These dosages correspond to 80 mg/kg or 120-160 mg/kg, respectively. Preferably by rapid intravenous injection.

The intravenous route of administration should be the route of choice if possible but alternatives such as intraperitoneal or intramuscular are available when venepuncture is difficult to achieve (e.g. in cats). In some circumstances the intrathoracic route may be used but this is usually the last resort. There is a risk of injection into the lungs which causes coughing and distress. Direct injection into a chamber of the heart is rapid, but it may be difficult to accurately locate the heart chamber in larger dogs and repeated attempts could cause unnecessary pain and distress.

When it is predicted that euthanasia may be problematical (i.e. aggressive patients), it is recommended that premedication with an appropriate sedative be given.