These graphs represent the experiences cat owners had after Zorbium was applied to their cat and and subsequently filled out our survey. While we know that each case is unique and every loss is deeply personal, visualizing the data in this way helps us understand the broader trends and patterns emerging around this medication.
As we continue to gather more information, it’s crucial to note that these results are ongoing and subject to change as more pet owners come forward with their experiences. Data updated 10/13/24.
Side Effects
From Elanco’s Website 8/6/24
ZORBIUM contains buprenorphine, an opioid that exposes humans to risks of misuse, abuse and addiction, which can lead to overdose and death. Use of buprenorphine may lead to physical dependence. The risk of abuse humans should be considered when storing, administering and disposing of ZORBIUM. Serious, life-threatening or fatal respiratory depression may occur with accidental exposure to or with misuse or abuse of ZORBIUM. ZORBIUM should only be administered veterinarians or veterinarian technicians who are trained in the handling of potent opioids. Accidental exposure to even one tube of ZORBIUM, especially in children, can result in a fatal overdose.
ZORBIUM is for topical application in cats only. Do not come into direct contact with ZORBIUM. Wear impermeable latex or nitrile gloves, protective glasses and a laboratory coat when applying ZORBIUM. Following application to the cat, allow a minimum drying time of 30 minutes before direct contact with the application site. Do not administer to cats with a known hypersensitivity to buprenorphine hydrochloride, any inactive ingredients of ZORBIUM, or known intolerance to opioids. Do not apply ZORBIUM if the application site at the dorsal cervical area has diseased or injured skin, or to anatomic areas other than the dorsal cervical area because absorption characteristics may be different. Body temperature should be monitored postoperatively. Most common adverse reactions during anesthesia were hypothermia, hypotension and hypertension, and after anesthetic recovery were hypothermia, hyperthermia and sedation. The safe use of ZORBIUM has not been evaluated in debilitated cats; those with renal, hepatic, cardiac or respiratory disease; pregnant, lactating or breeding cats; in cats younger than four months old; or in cats <2.6 lbs. or >16.5 lbs.
The following is a list of side effects reported to the FDA in association with Zorbium use in cats. This information is provided for educational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
Reported Adverse Reactions to Zorbium
This list was updated 10/13/2024. Data provided the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (https://open.fda.gov). For the most current information, please consult the FDA’s official resources.
Behavioral and Neurological
- Behavioral disorder NOS (Not Otherwise Specified)
- Lethargy
- Dysphoria
- Hiding
- Hyperactivity
- Restlessness
- Agitation
- Disorientation
- Ataxia
- Sedation
- Seizures
- Mental impairment
- Circling
- Anxiety
- Excitation
- Loss of consciousness
- Confusion
- Twitching
- Pacing
- Staring
- Vocalization
- Hallucination
Cardiovascular and Respiratory
- Hypotension
- Bradycardia
- Tachycardia
- Respiratory distress
- Cyanosis
- Collapse
- Increased heart rate
- Open mouth breathing
- Heavy breathing
- Panting
- Increased respiratory rate
- Hypertension
- Arrhythmia
- Pleural effusion
- Pulmonary oedema
Gastrointestinal
- Anorexia (not eating)
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty swallowing
- Decreased appetite
- Nausea
- Hypersalivation
- Drooling
Temperature Regulation
- Hyperthermia (high body temperature)
- Hypothermia (low body temperature)
- Fever
- Elevated temperature
Ocular
- Dilated pupils (mydriasis)
- Fixed pupil
- Blindness
- Abnormal pupil light reflex
- Eye irritation
- Squinting
- Third eyelid protrusion
- Anisocoria (unequal pupil size)
Urinary and Renal
- Urinary retention
- Difficulty in urination
- Inappropriate urination
- Kidney disorders
- Not urinating
- Elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
- Elevated creatinine
- Renal failure
Musculoskeletal and Mobility
- Weakness
- Unable to stand
- Stumbling gait
- Unsteady gait
- Falling
- Unable to jump
- Stiffness in limbs
- Muscle wasting
Other Physical Symptoms
- Dehydration
- Pale mucous membranes
- Trembling/Shaking
- Hypersalivation
- Facial swelling
- Weight loss
- Increased sweating
- Pain
- Malaise
- Lethargy
- Inappetence
- Not drinking
- Tongue protrusion
Metabolic and Laboratory Abnormalities
- Hyperglycemia
- Hypoglycemia
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Hypoalbuminemia
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Leucocytosis
- Neutropenia
Severe Outcomes
- Death
- Death euthanasia
- Coma
- Cardiac arrest
Application Site Reactions
- Application site alopecia (hair loss)
- Application site irritation
- Application site redness
- Application site scab
- Application site swelling
- Application site pruritus (itching)
- Application site inflammation
Note: This list is not exhaustive and may not represent all possible adverse reactions. If you notice any unusual symptoms in your pet after administering Zorbium, please contact your veterinarian immediately.
It’s important to stay informed about the latest official statements and guidelines regarding Zorbium. We encourage all cat owners to consult this FDA information and discuss it with their veterinarians.
Our Commitment
We remain committed to raising awareness, seeking answers, and pushing for change. While we are still unsure if this will become a class action case, we continue to gather information and investigate all possible avenues for justice.
Call for Support
We are actively seeking additional lawyers with experience in animal medication cases to join our cause. If you are a lawyer or know of one who might be interested in contributing to this important work, please contact us.
We are also reaching out to journalists who can help bring more attention to this issue. If you have media contacts or are a journalist interested in covering this story, we would greatly appreciate your support in spreading awareness.