POM-V Prescription Required Companion Animal

Euthoxin 500 mg/ml Solution for Injection

Active ingredient: Pentobarbital Sodium

Form

Injection

Species

Cats Cattle Chickens Dogs Frog Guinea Pig Hamster Hare Horses Lizard Mink Mouse Ornamental Birds Pigeon (non-food producing) Pigs Polecat Rabbits Rat Snake Tortoise

Manufacturer

Chanelle Pharmaceuticals Manufacturing Ltd

VMD MA No.

08749/4055

What it's used for

For euthanasia of small animals (mainly dogs and cats) and cattle.

Full indications, dosage and side effects ↓

View official SPC (PDF)

The prescription itself has a price. See what practices near you charge for a consultation and the written prescription fee.

Paying less for Pentobarbital Sodium

1

Ask your vet for a written prescription

They must provide one on request. Under the CMA Order the fee is capped at £21 from 2027.
2

Fill it at a registered online retailer

The CMA found online pharmacies 50–60% cheaper than practice dispensing on common medicines — typically £200–£300 a year.

Your prescription rights → VMD register of retailers →

Prescription required

Your vet must provide a written prescription on request. You can then purchase from any licensed online retailer.

Clinical information

Euthoxin 500 mg/ml Solution for Injection — SPC Details

Source: VMD Summary of Product Characteristics (SPC). Last updated 27 Mar 2026.

For euthanasia of small animals (mainly dogs and cats) and cattle.

0.7ml per kg bodyweight by rapid intravenous injection. The product solution is not intended for
dilution with water or any other fluid.

Not to be used in animals intended for animal consumption. Do not use for anaesthesia.

None

None

Revised: August 2025
AN: 01109/2025

Special precautions for use in animals
Select the needle gauge based on the species and size of animal and check that the syringe
and needle are mounted and secured correctly. It is important to ensure that any pressure
created during delivery does not lead to the needle disconnecting from the syringe. The amount
of the drug to be administered may mean that a smaller gauge needle may not deliver the
necessary volume at an appropriate speed. Any volume administered outside the vein will
reduce the efficacy of the dose.
Special precautions to be taken by the person administering the veterinary medicinal
product to animals
Care should be taken to ensure the pressure on the syringe is not too great to avoid
accidental spraying of the face and eyes (see ‘Special precautions for use in animals’).
Wear suitable protective gloves and glasses when handling the product. Avoid accidental self-
administration and self-injection.
In the case of accidental self-administration, by injection, ingestion or skin absorption, seek
URGENT medical attention, advising medical service of barbiturate poisoning.
In the event of an accident the following action should be taken:
Skin-Wash immediately with water and then thoroughly with soap and water.
Eyes- Wash immediately with cold water and obtain medical attention.
Ingestion- Obtain medical attention immediately. Wash out mouth. Keep warm and rest.
Accidental self-injection- Obtain URGENT medical attention, advising medical services of
barbiturate poisoning. Do not leave patient unattended.
Advice to Doctor- Maintain airways and give symptomatic and supportive treatment.

The effects of the product are increased by concomitant administration of sedatives (xylazine or
acepromazine).

Revised: August 2025
AN: 01109/2025

The product solution is not intended for dilution with water or any other fluid. Protect from
light.
Following withdrawal of the first dose use within 3 months. Discard any unused materials.

Revised: August 2025
AN: 01109/2025

Not to be used in animals intended for human consumption.
5.

This information is sourced from the official Summary of Product Characteristics (SPC) published by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD). It is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your vet before administering any medication.