Opioid‐Induced Myoclonus During Premedication in Two Dogs With Hydrocephalus Proactively Managed With Antiepileptic Medications

Abstract This report describes opioid‐induced neurotoxicity (OIN) in two dogs with hydrocephalus undergoing the investigation of recurrent seizures; in both dogs, myoclonus occurred following premedication with butorphanol and remifentanil and resolved following the administration of midazolam. Thor...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Changhoon Nam, Inhyung Lee, Won‐gyun Son
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Wiley 2025-05-01
Series:Veterinary Medicine and Science
Subjects:
Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1002/vms3.70277
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:Abstract This report describes opioid‐induced neurotoxicity (OIN) in two dogs with hydrocephalus undergoing the investigation of recurrent seizures; in both dogs, myoclonus occurred following premedication with butorphanol and remifentanil and resolved following the administration of midazolam. Thorough clinical evaluation excluded underlying systemic disease and increased intracranial pressure as possible causes, and opioid‐induced modulation of gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) inhibitory and dopaminergic interneurons was assumed. Benzodiazepines, like midazolam, enhanced GABA and appeared to be effective in managing these symptoms. The findings suggest that even at therapeutic doses, certain opioids can cause OIN in dogs. Caution is advised when using opioids, particularly in dogs with pre‐existing central nervous system disorders, and further research is needed to better understand dosage effects and alternative treatment options for OIN prevention.
ISSN:2053-1095