Flurazepam toxicosis in two dogs.

Author(s): Beier E 3rd, Bischoff K

Affiliation(s): College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater 74078, USA.

Publication date & source: 1997-12, Vet Hum Toxicol., 39(6):352-4.

Publication type: Case Reports

Flurazepam is a benzodiazepine (BZD) derivative and a category IV controlled substance. It is a widely prescribed hypnotic drug for use in sleep disorders. Two dogs were maliciously poisoned with this drug and died. Flurazepam was detected in the urine of 1 dog by thin-layer chromatography. Flumazenil, an antagonist for BZD receptors, is currently used in humans to reverse the effects of intoxication with BZD. It may also be of use in treating companion animals.