Which three opioids are used off label in cattle?

• A. Butorphanol, Morphine, Fentanyl
• B. Hydromorphone, Methadone, Carprofen
• C. Buprenorphine, Codeine, Aspirin
• D. Tramadol, Fentanyl, Acyclovir

Answer: (A)

The use of butorphanol, morphine, and fentanyl in cattle is recognized for off-label applications, especially in veterinary medicine for pain management.

Butorphanol is a commonly used opioid analgesic in veterinary practices due to its effective pain relief properties and its relatively low incidence of side effects. It is often employed for the management of postoperative pain or certain acute conditions in cattle.

Morphine, although more commonly associated with use in companion animals, can also be applied in cattle for severe pain management, especially in cases requiring potent analgesia.

Fentanyl, available in various formulations including patches, offers rapid analgesia and can be crucial in managing pain for cattle undergoing surgical procedures or in severe pain situations.

These three opioids are not typically approved for use in cattle by regulatory agencies but are often utilized based on veterinarian discretion and clinical judgment to manage pain effectively. The rationale for their off-label use is influenced by their pharmacological profiles and the specific needs of the animal in a clinical setting.