Transient cardiorespiratory arrest following an intravenous bolus dose of metoclopramide in a premedicated dog

Abstract The authors describe a 2‐year‐old Bullmastiff presented for brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome surgery, with no previously reported drug intolerances or cardiovascular disease, where intravenous injection of metoclopramide (1 mg/kg) was immediately followed by tachycardia, asystole, hyperextension of extremities and respiratory arrest. The patient received several chest compressions before sinus rhythm was re‐established, followed by administration of atropine (0.002 mg/kg) and atipamezole (20 µg/kg) intravenously. After case evaluation, this episode of cardiorespiratory arrest was deemed likely to have been caused by intravenous bolus administration of metoclopramide. To date, no other cases of cardiorespiratory arrest following metoclopramide administration have been reported in canine patients, although several instances have been reported in people. We discuss the course of events and actions taken with reference to available literature.