Aminophylline for Dogs, Cats, Cattle, and Horses: Dosage, Uses, and Side Effects Guide
Overview
Theophylline (q.v.) and ethylenediamine are combined to form aminophylline, a stable substance that causes the phosphodiesterase enzyme to be inhibited, intracellular calcium to be altered, catecholamine to be released, and the antagonism of adenosine and prostaglandin to cause bronchodilation and other effects. a spasmolytic and a mild diuretic effect.
Uses of Aminophylline For Dogs, Cats, Pigs, and Birds
- Used primarily for its bronchodilatory effects in small airway diseases such as chronic cough due to tracheitis and bronchitis.
- May be utilized for managing sick sinus syndrome and other bradyarrhythmias.
- Effective in dogs with pulmonary arterial hypertension secondary to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Administered as an adjunct treatment for severe equine asthma (formerly recurrent airway obstruction.
Aminophylline Dose In Different Animal Species
Aminophylline Dose For Dogs, Cats, Cattle, and Horses:
| Species | Condition | Dosage & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dogs | Bronchodilation | 3–11 mg/kg IV or IM every 6–12 hours. Dogs may need the higher end of the range and more frequent dosing (every 6–8 hours). If effective, transition to oral therapy. Note: Administer IV slowly over several minutes or as an infusion. Calculate based on lean body weight due to narrow therapeutic index. |
| Cats | Bronchodilation | 3–11 mg/kg IV or IM every 12 hours. Use the lower end of the range for safety. Switch to oral therapy when effective. Note: Avoid rapid IV administration. |
| Horses | Severe Equine Asthma | 5–14 mg/kg IV every 8–12 hours, administered in approximately 1 liter of IV fluids over 20–60 minutes. Monitor serum concentrations if possible. |
| Cattle | Bronchoconstriction (smoke inhalation) | 6–10 mg/kg IV or PO three times daily. Ensure careful monitoring for side effects. |
Drug Dosage Calculator
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Common Side Effects of Aminophylline
- Common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, polydipsia, polyuria, reduced appetite, tachycardia, arrhythmias, nausea, twitching, restlessness, and convulsions.
- Cats may exhibit hyperesthesia.
- Horses may experience transient excitement, tremors, and dose-related tachycardia.
Contraindications of Aminophylline
- Contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to xanthines.
- Caution in animals with severe cardiac disease, seizure disorders, gastric ulcers, hyperthyroidism, renal or hepatic impairment, or severe hypertension
Some Notes:
- Low Therapeutic Index: Calculate doses carefully using lean body weight.
- Interactions: Co-administration with certain antibiotics, barbiturates, and other drugs can affect serum levels.
- Monitoring: Serum concentration monitoring is recommended for optimal safety
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