Acepromazine

Acepromazine is a phenothiazine tranquilizer used for sedation and as a pre-anesthetic. Acepromazine is commonly used for sedation in various procedures, as a pre-anesthetic to calm animals before surgery, and to manage anxiety or motion sickness. Read more

Acepromazine is a phenothiazine tranquilizer used for sedation and as a pre-anesthetic. Acepromazine is commonly used for sedation in various procedures, as a pre-anesthetic to calm animals before surgery, and to manage anxiety or motion sickness.

Essential insights

• Dopamine Receptor Antagonism: Acepromazine primarily acts as an antagonist at dopamine D2 receptors in the central nervous system. By blocking these receptors, it reduces dopaminergic activity, leading to sedation and calming effects.
• Alpha-Adrenergic Receptor Blockade: It also antagonizes alpha-adrenergic receptors, which can cause vasodilation and lower blood pressure. This contributes to its calming effects and can help in reducing anxiety and agitation.
• Antihistamine Effects: Acepromazine has antihistamine properties, which can contribute to its sedative effects by blocking histamine H1 receptors, further aiding in calming the animal.
• Minimal Analgesic Effect: While it provides sedation, acepromazine has minimal direct analgesic properties. It is often used in conjunction with other drugs for pain management.
• Acepromazine should not be used alone for very anxious animals but is recommended as part of a combination treatment.