Azium (Dexamethasone) Dose for Cattle & Horses: Strengths & Dose Calculator
Azium solution is dexamethasone 2 mg/mL [1]. It is labelled for primary bovine ketosis and as an anti-inflammatory in cattle and horses: cattle 5–20 mg and horses 2.5–5 mg IV or IM [1].
- Contains
- Dexamethasone
- Forms
- Azium solution 2 mg/mL
- Label species
- Cattle, Horses
- Data from
- USA (FDA label)
- Type
- Corticosteroid
Azium dose calculator
Results are calculated in your browser from the doses and strengths on this page. Check the strength printed on your pack and the label in your country before giving any dose.
Azium strengths and presentations
| Presentation | Contains | Strength check |
|---|---|---|
| Azium solution 2 mg/mL IV / IM | Dexamethasone 2 mg per mL[1] | Confirmed |
Azium dose by species
Label directions
Warnings and precautions
- May induce parturition in the last trimester, followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta and metritis [1].
- Corticosteroids reportedly cause laminitis in horses [1].
- Do not use in calves to be processed for veal [1].
- Except in emergencies, do not use with chronic nephritis or Cushing’s syndrome; do not use in viral infections during the viraemic stage [1].
Withdrawal periods
About dexamethasone (the active ingredient)
Corticosteroid (glucocorticoid, long-acting).
How it works
Glucocorticoids bind receptors in the cell cytoplasm and the hormone–receptor complex changes which proteins the cell makes; one of these, lipocortin, inhibits phospholipase A2, the first step of prostaglandin and leukotriene production [2].
Key safety points
- Given in late pregnancy it may cause early parturition or abortion; in cattle glucocorticoids can induce parturition after 255 days of gestation [2][3].
- In horses, high doses of glucocorticoids may induce or worsen laminitis [2].
- Long-term use may cause iatrogenic Cushing’s syndrome, and stopping suddenly may lead to an Addisonian-like crisis [2].
- Except in emergencies, do not use in animals with diabetes mellitus, chronic nephritis, kidney disease, congestive heart failure or osteoporosis [3].
All about dexamethasone — doses by species and every brand →
Pack sizes
- 100 mL multiple-dose vial [1].
Frequently asked questions
What is the Azium dose for cows?
5–20 mg of dexamethasone IV or IM, i.e. 2.5–10 mL of the 2 mg/mL solution (calculated) [1].
Other brands of dexamethasone
Azium is a trademark of its owner. This page is an independent clinical reference and is not affiliated with Schering-Plough Animal Health. Strengths, species and withdrawal periods can differ between countries — always follow the pack insert in your country.
References
- AZIUM (dexamethasone) solution — label
Passage read from this source
Each mL contains 2 mg dexamethasone, 500 mg polyethylene glycol 400, 9 mg benzyl alcohol, 1.8 mg methylparaben
AZIUM Solution is indicated for the treatment of primary bovine ketosis
and as an anti-inflammatory agent in the bovine and equine.
Bovine-AZIUM Solution-5 to 20 mg intravenously or intramuscularly.
- Corticosteroids in Animals
Passage read from this source
Glucocorticoid-specific receptors in the cell cytoplasm bind with steroid ligands to form hormone-receptor complexes
Such proteins include lipocortin, a protein known to inhibit PLA2alpha
can induce parturition when administered after 255 days of gestation in cattle
In horses, high doses of glucocorticoids may induce or exacerbate laminitis.
- Dexadreson 2 mg/ml solution for injection — SPC
Passage read from this source
Horses, cattle, pigs: 1.5 ml/50 kg
Dogs, cats: 0.5 ml/10 kg
It can be used as an anti-inflammatory and antiallergic agent in horses, cattle, pigs, dogs and cats
The veterinary medicinal product can also be used to induce parturition in cattle.
For veterinary professionals. Information supports — never replaces — clinical judgement; always check the current product label and local regulations.