Ipecac

Ipecac

By: Dr. Dawn Ruben

Overview

  • Ipecac is derived from the roots of certain plants. It belongs to a class of drugs known as emetics. Similar drugs include apomorphine.
  • Ipecac acts by irritating the stomach lining and stimulating the impulse to vomit. Vomiting will generally occur within 30 minutes of administration.
  • Ipecac is available over the counter but should not be administered unless under the supervision and guidance of a veterinarian.
  • This drug is not approved for use in animals by the Food and Drug Administration but it is prescribed legally by veterinarians as an extra-label
    drug.

    Brand Names and Other Names

  • This drug is registered for use in humans only.
  • Human formulations: Ipecac is supplied by numerous drug companies with a variety of trade names and various generic preparations
  • Veterinary formulations: None

    Uses of Ipecac

  • The sole purpose of ipecac is to induce vomiting.
  • Ipecac is primarily used to induce vomiting after ingestion of a toxic substance or a foreign object.

    Precautions and Side Effects

  • While generally safe and effective when prescribed by a veterinarian, ipecac can cause side effects in some animals.
  • Ipecac should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug.
  • Ipecac should be avoided in animals with heart disease or breathing difficulty. It should also be avoided in an animal that is minimally responsive, convulsing or comatose.
  • If an animal has already been vomiting, ipecac should not be used.
  • Do not use ipecac to evacuate corrosive ingestions or toxins that can lead to aspiration pneumonia.
  • When used properly and vomiting occurs, there are little adverse effects associated with ipecac.
  • If vomiting does not occur, there is a potential for serious heart toxicity. For this reason, other emetics may be recommended.

    How Ipecac Is Supplied

  • Ipecac is available in a 15 ml or 30 ml syrup.

    Dosing Information

  • Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian.
  • To induce vomiting, 0.5 to 1 ml per pound (1 to 2 ml/kg) is recommended.
  • If no vomiting occurs, a second dose can be administered.
  • If there is still no vomiting, examination and treatment by your veterinarian is recommended.



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