How to Use Fentanyl Transdermal Patches for Analgesia in Horses

Abstract

Fentanyl transdermal patches can provide significant analgesia in horses for a variety of painful conditions, especially those with a visceral component. Patches are applied to clipped skin on the neck or upper forearm under a light bandage. One 10-mg patch per 150 kg of body weight is recommended; patches may be replaced every 48–72 h. Undesirable side effects have not been observed at this dose in any clinical cases. Authors’ address: Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610-0136.© 2002 AAEP.