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Buprenorphine Long-Acting Transdermal

What is buprenorphine long-acting transdermal?

Buprenorphine long-acting transdermal (brand name Zorbium®) is an opioid analgesic (pain relieving) medication. It is labeled for use in treating post-surgery pain in cats. This medication is a controlled narcotic available for use in the United States.

It may be used “off label” or “extra label” to treat other types of pain in cats and to treat pain in other species. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully.

How do I give my pet buprenorphine long-acting transdermal?

Buprenorphine long-acting transdermal comes in liquid transdermal form.

This medication will take effect quickly, in about 1 to 2 hours. This medication is long-acting, meaning that effects will last up to 4 days but may be prolonged in pets with kidney and/or liver disease.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

This medication is administered once (one time) by your veterinary team. There is no repeat dosing at home.

Are there any potential side effects from buprenorphine long-acting transdermal?

Buprenorphine long-acting transdermal may cause the following side effects:

The following reactions are rare, but if they occur, contact your veterinarian immediately:

Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE in animals with known allergies to any components or with known sensitivities to opioids

Use WITH CAUTION in:

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Certain medications should be USED WITH CAUTION when given with buprenorphine long-acting transdermal, including:

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

How do I store buprenorphine long-acting transdermal?

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.

© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Created on Jun 18, 2024.

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