Why is my dog with pancreatitis still moaning after pain meds?

Question

My 12 yr old dog has pancreatitis. This came on because she has Cushings. Had the vet do a 24 hr IV drip w/ pain meds. I don't think the pain meds the vet gave us, buprenorphine, is working. She mostly slept through the night, but started moaning in late morning (after getting more pain meds) and has been doing so for hours. She wasn't doing that when she first got home. She hasn't really eaten and had a little water. I don't know what to do for her. Will the inflammation go away? Pet's info: Dog | Bichon Frise | Female | spayed | 12 years and 6 months old | 12 lbs

Makenzie Kurth, DVM · Accepted Answer

I'm so sorry to hear about Nena! Pancreatitis is sometimes a tough disease to deal with. Buprenorphine is actually one of my favorite pain medications for pancreatitis patients and is generally a good choice. However, like all opiate-type medications, it can cause dysphoria which is characterized by vocalizing, not seeming to know where she is, or howling at "nothing". This can happen with frequent dosing or if a patient is a little more sensitive to this drug than the average pet. Just to be safe, double check the dose you are giving and call your vet if there is any concern. Consider giving half of your prescribed dose to see if she seems better or worse. In addition to buprenorphine, I often prescribe a medication like cerenia (maropitant) which is an anti-nusea medication that also has good pain relieving effects for the abdominal organs. If Nena is not on cerenia already, call and ask your vet if it would be appropriate for her. Usually with a few days of pain and nausea control and the fluids, most pancreatitis cases do improve - though I've seen a few that required more intensive care for 4-6 days. Hang in there! You are doing a great job. Don't be afraid to call your vet's office too if you have concerns or just want to discuss treatment further. Best of luck to you and Nena!

Why is my dog with pancreatitis still moaning after pain meds?

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