Pentobarbital Sodium and Phenytoin Sodium Euthanasia Solution

Pentobarbital Sodium and Phenytoin Sodium Euthanasia Solution is a veterinary combination product developed by Parnell Veterinary Pharmaceuticals for the humane, rapid, and painless euthanasia of dogs. The formulation contains two active small molecules: pentobarbital sodium (390 mg/mL) and phenytoin sodium (50 mg/mL). Pentobarbital is a barbiturate that acts as a potent central nervous system depressant by enhancing GABA-A receptor activity, inducing rapid anesthesia and unconsciousness. Phenytoin stabilizes voltage-gated sodium channels in the inactive state, which leads to cardiovascular collapse and further CNS depression. This synergistic combination ensures a quick transition to death. The product is administered via intravenous or intracardiac injection and is typically colored with Rhodamine B (a bluish-red dye) to distinguish it from therapeutic parenteral drugs. It was launched in March 2026 as a Class III controlled veterinary product.

Brand names

Pentobarbital/Phenytoin