Question 1

What is Physostigmine used for?

Accepted Answer

Physostigmine is indicated for: Anticholinergic toxicity, Anticholinergic toxicity (e.g., jimsonweed, antihistamine OD).

Question 2

What routes can Physostigmine be administered by?

Accepted Answer

Available routes: IV, IM.

Question 3

Which species have cited Physostigmine dosing data?

Accepted Answer

Physostigmine dosing in the ExoticRx formulary covers 2 species: Cat (Domestic), Dog (Domestic).

Question 4

Is Physostigmine a controlled substance?

Accepted Answer

Physostigmine is not federally scheduled as a controlled substance, but is veterinary prescription only in most jurisdictions.

Question 5

What are the warnings or contraindications for Physostigmine?

Accepted Answer

Short duration of action — repeat dosing often needed. Can cause cholinergic crisis. Atropine must be available as counter-antidote. Slow IV push only.

Question 6

What are the side effects of Physostigmine?

Accepted Answer

Short duration of action — repeat dosing often needed. Can cause cholinergic crisis. Atropine must be available as counter-antidote. Slow IV push only.

Question 7

How does Physostigmine work?

Accepted Answer

Reversible carbamate acetylcholinesterase inhibitor that crosses the blood-brain barrier, reversing both central and peripheral anticholinergic toxicity.

Species	Route	Dose	Frequency	Evidence	Source
Dog (Domestic)	IV	0.01–0.02 mg/kg	Slow IV push; may repeat q15-30min	Moderate	Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed; ASPCA Toxicology
Cat (Domestic)	IV	0.01–0.02 mg/kg	Slow IV push; may repeat q15-30min	Weak	Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

Physostigmine

Drug Class

Routes

Indications

Mechanism of Action

Side effects & warnings

Species with Physostigmine dosing data (2 dose rules)

Evidence levels across 2 dose rules

Backed by 2 published primary sources

Sample dosing (2 of 2 cited rules)

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