[Currently Approved by the IACUC]

This is intended to be used as a reference of suggested and possible anesthetic doses of anesthetics and analgesics for a variety of species. To assist in determining the appropriate analgesics, guidelines for recognizing and categorizing pain should be consulted: Charts 1-3 below, and http://www.iacuc.arizona.edu/training/surgery/module/Controlling_Pain_and_Distress.html

The information provided here is not complete, original or unique. Rather, the information provided has come from a number of sources including IACUC protocols, reference manuals and books, and research and technical articles from journals. It is always advisable to consult a Veterinarian and review Laboratory Animal Formularies for appropriate agents and dosages. Other options exist, but are not listed in these charts.

When using analgesic agents the concept of pre-emptive analgesia should be followed. That is, relieving the potential pain before the pain is felt. To do so will result in a quicker, less stressful recovery of the patient.

Dosages, Measures, and Methods

• BW body weight lb pounds
• bid twice daily mg milligrams
• d days min minutes
• h hours ml milliters
• IA intraarterially mm millimeters
• IC intracoelomically PO by mouth (per os)
• IM intramuscularly prn as needed
• in. inches q every (number of hours)
• IP intraperitoneally s seconds
• IPP intrapleuroperitoneally SC subcutaneously
• IT intratracheally sid once daily
• IU international units Tbs tablespoons (approximately 15 ml)
• IV intravenously tid three times daily
• kg kilograms tsp teaspoons (approximately 5 ml)
• l liters % g/100 ml

Potential sources for information on anesthetic/analgesic doses:
Users are encouraged to consult the following for other anesthetic or analgesic agents and techniques:

• Veterinary and clinical animal care staff of the facility, for advice during protocol preparation and during the conduct of the study.
• Scientific and technical journal research and review articles dealing with the research procedures and anesthetics/analgesics that will be used. Books and monographs dealing with veterinary and laboratory animal anesthesia, surgery and research techniques/procedures. Contact veterinary and clinical animal care staff for assistance in identifying current, good and comprehensive volumes.
• Recommended References are at the end of this document.