Sadar MJ, Knych HK, Drazenovich TL, Paul-Murphy JR. Pharmacokinetics of buprenorphine after intravenous and oral transmucosal administration in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus). Am J Vet Res 79(3):260 ‒266, 2018.

The oral transmucosal (OTM) route of buprenorphine administration has been used in a number of species, but to date has only been determined to be effective in dogs, cats, rats, and humans. Salivary pH may affect the absorption of buprenorphine and has not previously been reported for guinea pigs. Note: buprenorphine, as a base, may be better absorbed in an environment with a relatively basic pH. The goal of this study was to determine whether a selected dose of buprenorphine delivered intravenously (IV) and OTM would provide plasma concentrations of buprenorphine ( ≥1 ng/mL) that have been established as analgesic in other species, and to evaluate the sedative effects of buprenorphine in guinea pigs.
Source: Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine - Category: Veterinary Research Source Type: research