Ipecac Syrup

Major Uses

Ipecac syrup is an emetic drug that is used in animals to induce vomiting. Ipecac is used when animals ingest toxic substances or foreign objects that can be detrimental to their health. Ipecac stimulates the impulse to vomit by irritating the animal's stomach lining. This usually occurs within 30 minutes of ingestion.

Common Precautions

Ipecac should not be given to animals with heart disease or difficulty breathing. Animals that are comatose, unresponsive, or convulsing should not be given this medication. Ipecac should not be used if the animal has already been vomiting. Corrosive toxins that have been ingested can create more damage if ipecac is used because it can lead to aspiration pneumonia.

If vomiting occurs after the Ipecac was given, and it was used properly, there are few known side effects. If a failed repeated attempt occurs to induce vomiting, then gastric lavage is necessary to remove the emetine to prevent additional toxicosis. Ipecac should not be used in animals with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to the drug.

Storage

Ipecac syrup should be stored at room temperature. This drug should not be given to an animal unless under a veterinarian's guidance.

Administration

Ipecac syrup should only be given to an animal to induce vomiting after a toxin or harmful foreign object has been ingested. A dose of 0.5 to 1 ml per pound is recommended. A second dose can be administered if vomiting does not occur. If there is still no vomiting, the animal needs to be seen by a veterinarian immediately.

Doses may vary in different species, when the drug is given by a different route or concurrently with other medications, and with regards to a patient's age, breed, and health status. A veterinarian's dosing instructions and/or those printed on the medication label should be followed closely.