Resources

Information for Veterinarians on Anesthetic Drug Shortages

Diazepam and Midazolam

  • Diazepam is on back order due to manufacturing delays. Currently, Hospira is the sole supplier of injectable diazepam, thus, there are no other US FDA-approved sources of this drug.
  • Midazolam is on back order due to increased demand resulting from diazepam shortage. There are multiple manufacturers of injectable midazolam and they are working to meet the increased demand.
  • Neither drug is being discontinued. Midazolam is expected to have increased availability in early spring 2012.
  • Download the following document, created by Dr. Shafford, for suggestions on conserving your current stocks of diazepam and midazolam, and options for premedication, sedation and induction while these drugs are not available.
  • Download pdfDiazepam & Midazolam Shortage Info For Veterinarians
  • If you would like to consult with Dr. Shafford about any and all of the alternatives, please contact us to schedule a consult.

Drug Shortage Summary Table

  • Download the following document, created by Dr. Shafford, that lists current drug shortages related to veterinary anesthesia and analgesia.
  • Download pdfDrug Shortage Table Veterinary Anesthesia Medications
  • If you would like to consult with Dr. Shafford about ways to minimize the impact of drug shortages and back orders on patient care in your practice, please contact us to schedule a consult.

Reference materials

We consider the following publications to be valuable references for those interested in learning more about the practice of safe and effective veterinary anesthesia and pain management:

  • Brock, N. Veterinary Anesthesia Update, 2nd Edition. AAHA Press. 2007.
  • This is the ONE anesthesia reference we feel should be read and referred to in every small animal practice. Information is easy to access, covers topics such as equipment, drugs and techniques, and offers protocol suggestions for patients with underlying disease. The author is a veterinary anesthesiologist with over 20 years experience working with private practitioners to enhance anesthesia.
  • Gaynor JS & Muir WW. Handbook of Veterinary Pain Management, 2nd Edition. Mosby, Inc. 2008.
  • Tranquilli WJ, Grimm KA & Lamont LA. Pain Management for the Small Animal Practitioner. Teton NewMedia. 2000.
  • Tranquilli WJ, Thurmon JC & Grimm KA. Lumb and Jones' Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia, 4th Edition. Blackwell Publishing. 2008.
  • Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia – the official journal of the American College of Veterinary Anesthesiologists

Organizations

Veterinary Anesthesia Specialists, LLC and Dr. Shafford are affiliated with the following organizations:

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