ExoticRx · exoticrx.com/drugs/sodium-nitrite
US brand names:Nithiodote(component)
Sodium Nitrite is dosed at 10–20 mg/kg IV Single slow IV dose in dogs, per Hoareau G. Smoke inhalation. Presented at: Pacific Veterinary Conferences; 2016. — Verified against Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 10th Ed, p.1193 (2026-08-01).. Verify against current literature before clinical use.
Oxidizes hemoglobin to methemoglobin, which has high affinity for cyanide, forming cyanmethemoglobin and freeing cytochrome oxidase. Combined with sodium thiosulfate.
Creates controlled methemoglobinemia — dangerous if overdosed. Monitor methemoglobin levels. Do not use in smoke inhalation (already elevated carboxyhemoglobin).
Species references:All Cat (Domestic) drugsAll Dog (Domestic) drugs
Each ExoticRx dose rule is graded by the strength of its primary evidence — see the editorial process.
A dog/cat sample is shown here. Cited dosing for all 2 species — reptiles, birds, pocket pets, livestock, and equine — is free on the per-species pages above. Pro adds the weight-based calculator for every species.
| Species | Route | Dose | Frequency | Evidence | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dog (Domestic) | IV | 10–20 mg/kg | Single slow IV dose | Moderate | Hoareau G. Smoke inhalation. Presented at: Pacific Veterinary Conferences; 2016. — Verified against Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 10th Ed, p.1193 (2026-08-01). |
| Cat (Domestic) | IV | 5–10 mg/kg | Single slow IV dose (use with extreme caution) | Weak | Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed |
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View PlansSource citations and evidence levels available on the live page. Reference only — verify against current literature before clinical use.