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OBJECTIVE: To evaluate if opioid-induced behavioral effects, such as sedation, can be detected using a shuttle box experimental apparatus and whether thermal preference following noxious stimulation using mustard oil is reversed by morphine administration in fish. METHODS: 5 goldfish (Carassius auratus) underwent 2 randomized blinded experimental trials, with a crossover study design. First, opioid effects were tested in a shuttle box without painful stimulus. Fish were injected 5 days apart with butorphanol at 0.4 or 10 mg/kg, morphine at 5 or 10 mg/kg, or saline IM. After 30 minutes, each fish was placed in a shuttle box for 2 hours with a temperature gradient of 26 to 28 °C. Temperature preference, time spent immobile, and swimming velocity were assessed. The second trial consisted of cutaneous noxious stimulation using mustard oil immersion for 5 minutes followed by an assessment of thermal preference for 4 minutes in the shuttle box after either morphine at 10 mg/kg or saline IM injections. Linear mixed models were used to compare treatment groups. RESULTS: Before noxious stimulation, a low dose of morphine caused sedation compared with control group and high-dose morphine and butorphanol treatments. Immersion in mustard oil caused fish to spend more time in the cold area in the control group. Morphine administration reversed this pattern. CONCLUSIONS: The sedative and analgesic effects of opioids were detected through this model. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The shuttle box model could be used to assess the analgesic effects of other opioids in goldfish while reducing biases associated with the sedative and stimulatory effects of these drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intravenous infusions of alpha‐2 adrenoceptor sedatives and opioids can potentially facilitate surgery in donkeys while standing. Literature on this subject matter is scant. Objectives: Evaluation of efficacy of sedation from α2‐adrenoceptors (dexmedetomidine or xylazine) and butorphanol during ovariectomy in standing donkeys. Study design: Randomised, masked in vivo experiment. Methods: Thirteen female donkeys were sedated with butorphanol (0.05 mg/kg bwt followed by 0.05 mg/kg bwt/h) IV. Concomitantly, 6 of the 13 jennies were sedated with dexmedetomidine 2.5 mcg/kg bwt followed by 2.5 mcg/kg bwt/h (Dex‐B group), while seven jennies were sedated with xylazine 0.5 mg/kg bwt followed by 0.5 mg/kg bwt/h (Xyl‐B group). A line block of the left flank and an infiltration block around uterine ligament were performed with lidocaine. While the jennies underwent ovariectomies standing, sedation scores and head height above ground were assessed at 2 and 10 min after sedative boluses and every 10 min thereafter. If sedation was too light or too deep, the dose of dexmedetomidine or xylazine was increased or decreased by 25% of the original infusion rate, while butorphanol infusion rate was constant. Physiological parameters were measured. Normally distributed data were compared using the two‐sample t test while repeatedly measured data were tested for differences between and within groups using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) by ranks followed by a Wilcoxon test with Tukey Honest Significant Difference for multiple testing. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Both Dex‐B and Xyl‐B caused moderate to marked sedation adequate for ovariectomy in donkeys. Evident sedation was absent by 60 min of termination of infusions. No adverse physiological effects were observed. Main limitations: Study on ovariectomy cases only, no pharmacokinetic profiling. Conclusions: Dexmedetomidine or xylazine and butorphanol sedation is feasible for ovariectomy in standing donkeys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of our study was to test different anesthetic mixtures in order to identify the most suitable one for a surgical cardiac ischemia-reperfusion model in mice. Methods: 1) Sixty four mice were submitted to one of the 6 combinations of ketamine or alfaxalone associated to xylazine, medetomidine or midazolam. Depth and quality of anesthesia were evaluated via 5 reflex scores. 2) Impact of analgesic (buprenorphine or butorphanol), anesthesia reversal (with atipamezole) and surgery (cardiac ischemia-reperfusion surgery) have been tested in the selected protocols. 3) infarction size has been measured with TTC (Triphenyl Tetrazolium Chloride) method in mice anesthetized with best protocols. Results: Protocol involving medetomidine induced the longest surgical anesthesia: (median = 120, {interquartile range = 100–125}) min with ketamine and 53 {25–100} min with alfaxalone. Butorphanol substitution with buprenorphine did not alter time-related anesthesia parameters. Atipamezole reversal considerably reduced both recovery and immobilization time (respectively 22 {18–30} min and 98 {88–99} min vs. 55 {40–70} min and 143 {131–149} min, in groups with no reversal, p = 0.001) with no impact on infarction size measurement. Conclusion: In this study, the combination alfaxalone/medetomidine/buprenorphine (80/0,3/0,075 mg.kg-1, s.c.) associated with reversal by atipamezole was a reliable anesthetic protocol for murine surgery, particularly for the study of ischemia-reperfusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to compare the analgesic efficacy of butorphanol and lidocaine, alone or in combination, in calves undergoing surgical repair of umbilical hernia. The study was conducted in 60 calves of different breeds. Xylazine 0.3mg/kg was administered intramuscularly to all animals in the study. The animals were then divided into three groups (n = 20) that received different treatments with lidocaine at 4.5mg/kg and butorphanol at 0.02mg/kg. The L group received lidocaine both by infiltration of the surgical planes and intraperitoneally, the B group received butorphanol both by infiltration of the surgical planes and intraperitoneally, and finally the LB group received lidocaine by infiltration of the surgical planes and butorphanol intraperitoneally. Heart and respiratory rates, haemoglobin oxygen saturation, non-invasive blood pressure and temperature were recorded during surgery. Response to the surgical stimulus was scored on a cumulative numerical scale that included percentage changes in HR, RR and SAP. Postoperative pain was assessed by three independent observers, blinded to treatment, using the UNESP-Botucatu Unidimensional Composite Pain Scale (UNESP-Botucatu UCPSIV) for the assessment of postoperative pain in cattle. The course of physiological variables was appropriate for patients under anaesthesia. No subject required rescue intraoperative analgesia. In group L, 4 subjects at 40m and 5 subjects at 50m required postoperative rescue analgesia. Both butorphanol alone and the combination of butorphanol and lidocaine showed excellent intraoperative and postoperative scores. Furthermore, this combination did not cause any cardiopulmonary or other adverse effects. Based on the results of this study, both butorphanol alone and the coadministration of butorphanol and lidocaine administered locally proved to be safe and effective in providing adequate and long-lasting analgesia in calves, helping to reduce postoperative discomfort and maintaining adequate animal welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pacarana (Dinomys branickii) is among the rarest of mammals under human care, with few research about the species health. This study is aimed at describing for the first time values for pacaranas under human care for commonly used hematologic and blood chemistry parameters. After the physical restraint, animals were anesthetized with a combination of dexmedetomidine, midazolam, and butorphanol for preventive medical exams. Based on phylogenetic and morphological proximity, the data from the present study were compared with data from a worldwide zoological databank, Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS) for chinchillas (Chinchilla lanigera), prehensile-tailed porcupines (Coendou prehensilis), and capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris). For most of the hematological and biochemical values, pacaranas were similar to the data reported to prehensile-tailed porcupines. This information will be valuable for future initiatives to assess the health of individuals arriving in rehabilitation centers and kept in zoological institutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Common blue-tongued skinks (Tiliqua scincoides) are popular pets due to their docile temper. Because of their popularity, they are routinely presented to veterinarians for examinations or procedures; however, to date, there has been limited research evaluating sedation protocols for this species. This study aimed to test different sedation combinations in these skinks: alfaxalone alone, alfaxalone with midazolam, dexmedetomidine with midazolam, and a combination of alfaxalone, dexmedetomidine, and midazolam. All four combinations provided safe sedation, but there were different physiologic responses noted. According to our trials, the combinations of all three drugs or alfaxalone with midazolam are recommended for minor procedures. Common blue-tongued skinks (Tiliqua scincoides) are popular pet reptiles; however, there has been limited research to investigate sedatives for this species. The purpose of this study was to measure the physiologic effects of four combinations of alfaxalone, dexmedetomidine, and midazolam for minor procedures such as intubation and blood collection. Eleven common blue-tongued skinks (Tiliqua scincoides) were used for this prospective, randomized cross-over study. The subcutaneous combinations were used as follows: 20 mg/kg alfaxalone (A); 10 mg/kg alfaxalone and 1 mg/kg midazolam (AM); 0.1 mg/kg dexmedetomidine and 1 mg/kg midazolam (DM); and 5 mg/kg alfaxalone, 0.05 mg/kg dexmedetomidine, and 0.5 mg/kg midazolam (ADM). Heart rate, respiratory rate, palpebral reflex, righting reflex, escape reflex, toe pinch withdrawal reflex, tongue flicking, and the possibility of intubation were recorded at baseline and every 5 min for 60 min. Venous blood gases were measured at baseline, full sedation, and recovery. Heart and respiratory rates decreased significantly in all groups, but the reductions were most prominent in DM and ADM. Analgesic effects, as measured by the toe pinch withdrawal reflex, were only observed in DM and ADM. Intubation was possible in all four protocols; however, it was not possible in two DM skinks. Based on these trials, ADM and AM are recommended for minor procedures in blue-tongue skinks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cough is a common clinical complaint in small animal practice with limited treatment options for chronic underlying conditions. Objectives: The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of three antitussive drugs in a novel, minimally invasive canine acute cough model. Methods: Five clinically healthy Beagles were used to create an acute cough model by administering sterile saline via a transtracheally placed central venous catheter. Single‐dose antitussive effects of butorphanol, maropitant and Danpron were assessed. Cough frequency was measured before and at hourly intervals up to 3 h post‐administration of each drug, with a linear mixed model used for statistical analysis. Results: Butorphanol (0.3 m/kg, IM) significantly reduced cough frequency at 1 and 3 h post‐administration. Danpron (0.1 mL/kg, IM) also significantly reduced cough frequency 1 h post‐administration; however, this effect was not sustained at 3 h. Maropitant (1 mg/kg, IM) did not significantly reduce cough frequency. The cough induction method was effective and minimally invasive, with no adverse effects. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that butorphanol has a potent and prolonged antitussive effect in an acute canine cough model, whereas Danpron shows a transient effect. These findings provide valuable insights into the comparative efficacy of commonly used antitussive drugs in dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Advances in pain research challenge the concept that animals lack pain senses, showing that they have similar neural pathways to humans and experience pain similarly. Understanding brain circuits for effective pain control is crucial for adjusting pain control to individual patient responses and conditions. Pain management in oncological patients aims to lessen the impact of tumor cell development and its consequences on the immune system. Researchers have focused on improving algological approaches to better respond to patient needs, which requires a deeper understanding of how analgesics work, interact with other drugs, and affect patients' conditions. Opioids, although linked to tumor progression, remain the mainstay for managing oncologic pain. Advancements in understanding pain physiopathology have historically challenged animals' absence of pain senses. Studies have demonstrated that animals have comparable neural pain pathways, suggesting that cats and dogs likely experience pain similarly to humans. Understanding brain circuits for effective pain control has been crucial to adjusting pain management to the patient's individual responses and current condition. The refinement of analgesic strategies is necessary to better cater to the patient's demands. Cancer pain management searches to ascertain analgesic protocols that enhance patient well-being by minimizing or abolishing pain and reducing its impact on the immune system and cancer cells. Due to their ability to reduce nerve sensitivity, opioids are the mainstay for managing moderate and severe acute pain; however, despite their association with tumor progression, specific opioid agents have immune-protective properties and are considered safe alternatives to analgesia for cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Postoperative pain is acute with complex physiological responses to tissue injury. Epidural technique using opioids has been found to provide better pain relief than systemic opioids and also decreased incidence of postoperative complications. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to compare the onset, duration, quality of analgesia, cardio-respiratory effects and side effects of epidural butorphanol with epidural fentanyl for the relief of postoperative pain. METHODOLOGY 60 patients of either sex, age group of 18- 60 years, belonging to ASA grade Ι and ΙΙ, posted for elective lower abdominal surgeries were selected. They were randomly divided into 2 groups of 30 each. All surgeries were done under lumbar epidural anaesthesia. Postoperatively, when patient complained of pain, intensity of pain was assessed using Linear Visual analog scale (VAS) and when VAS score was >5, patients received either epidural butorphanol 2mg or epidural fentanyl 100µg diluted to 10ml with normal saline. Onset of analgesia, which is the time interval from administration of study drug till VAS score came down to < 5 was noted in both groups. Duration of analgesia, which is the time interval between start of analgesia (VAS score < 5) till patient complaints of pain (VAS score >5) was noted in both groups. Quality of analgesia was assessed using pain score in both the groups. Cardio-respiratory effects, heart rate, blood pressure and respiratory rate were monitored at regular intervals and were compared between the 2 groups. Side effects like sedation, pruritus, nausea, vomiting, hypotension and respiratory depression were noted. RESULTS Demographic profile (age, sex) was comparable in both groups. The onset of analgesia was clinically and statistically significantly late (6minutes) in butorphanol group when compared to fentanyl group (3minutes). Duration of analgesia was longer in butorphanol group (350 minutes) in comparison to fentanyl group (230 minutes) which was clinically and statistically significant. Quality of analgesia was better in butorphanol group. Sedation was the main side effect in butorphanol group. Incidence of pruritus, vomiting, hypotension and respiratory depression was more in fentanyl group. CONCLUSION Epidural butorphanol provides delayed onset but longer duration and better quality of analgesia than fentanyl with paucity of clinically significant side effects with both groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of post-surgical photobiomodulation therapy in dogs. Methods: Twenty dogs were selected for elective gastropexy and randomly divided into a control (CG, n = 10) and a PBMT group (PBMTG, n = 10). Pre‑medication consisted of medetomidine and butorphanol. Meloxicam was administered before the procedure. Induction was performed with propofol and maintained with sevoflurane. Local blocks with lidocaine were used. Incisional gastropexy was performed in all animals. PBMTG received PBMT immediately after surgery. The need for postoperative rescue analgesia, if the animal had eaten by the evaluation momen, and pain scores were collected using the Glasgow Composite Measure Pain Scale – Short Form (CMPS‑SF) at 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 h post‑endotracheal extubation. CMPS‑SF scores were compared with the Mann-Whitney Test and proportions of animals that required rescue analgesia and had eaten with a χ2 test. P was set at < 0.05. Results: No rescue analgesia was needed for any animal. Still, significant differences were observed in CMPS-SF scores between CG and PBMTG between 1 and 4 h post-extubation. PBMTG had a significantly higher proportion of animals eating up to the 8 h post-extubation evaluation moment. Conclusion: Adding post-surgical photobiomodulation to a standard anesthesia and analgesia protocol reduced CMPS-SF scores and increased the proportion of animals that resumed eating compared to the standard protocol alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study, titled "A Comparative Study Between Epidural Butorphanol and Epidural Buprenorphine for Postoperative Pain Relief in Patients Undergoing Lower Abdominal and Lower Limb Surgeries," involved 100 ASA I and II patients aged 20-60 years. Ethical committee approval was obtained before starting the study. Patients were randomly divided into two groups: Group A (n=50) received 1 mg of Butorphanol tartrate, and Group B (n=50) received 300 mcg of Buprenorphine hydrochloride. In the postoperative period, the study drug was administered via an epidural catheter when patients first reported pain. The mean duration of analgesia for Butorphanol was 5.19±0.747 hours, with a rapid onset and excellent pain relief, though some experienced nausea, vomiting, and pruritus. No motor blockade or other complications were noted. For Buprenorphine, the mean duration of analgesia was 9.85±1.49 hours, with a slower onset compared to Butorphanol. Despite excellent pain relief, there were higher incidences of nausea (14%) and vomiting (20%) compared to Butorphanol (8% and 10%, respectively), while pruritus was less frequent (4% vs. 10%). Two patients (4%) in the Buprenorphine group experienced hypotension, with no motor blockade reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

General anesthesia in calves is easier to perform under field conditions, total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) than using inhalation anesthesia. In the present study, cardiopulmonary function, anesthetic effects, quality of arousal, hematology, and blood biochemistry were assessed during continuous infusion of a combination solution of 0.01% xylazine, 0.001% butorphanol, and 0.2% propofol (XBP) at doses of 6 (G6; 10 μg/kg/min xylazine, 1 μg/kg/min butorphanol, 200 μg/kg/min propofol) and 9 mL/kg/h (G9; 15 μg/kg/min xylazine, 1.5 μg/kg/min butorphanol 300 μg/kg/min propofol). For both groups, five castrated Holstein calves received intravenous injections of xylazine (0.2 mg/kg) and propofol (2 mg/kg), followed by a continuous infusion of XBP for 60 min to maintain anesthesia. Respiratory management consisted of tracheal intubation followed by spontaneous inhalation of pure oxygen. Cardiopulmonary, anesthesia, hematology, and blood biochemistry variables were assessed at rest (baseline) and every 5 or 15 min after the start of the XBP infusion. Quality of arousal was assessed based on the swallowing reflex recovery time from the stop of XBP infusion, and the sternal position time and standing time after atipamezole administration. XBP produced adequate sedation, analgesia, and muscle relaxation in all calves and maintained stable anesthesia for 60 min. As XBP infusion time passed, rectal temperature and heart rate became lower, and mean arterial blood pressure increased. In both groups, hematologic and blood biochemical effects were mild. The quality of arousal was not different, and all calves were standing. The results of the present study suggested that XBP is useful for TIVA in calves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To compare the effects of midazolam, propofol, and dexmedetomidine monotherapy and combination therapy on the prognosis of intensive care unit (ICU) patients receiving continuous mechanical ventilation (MV). Methods: 11,491 participants from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC)-IV database 2008-2019 was included in this retrospective cohort study. The primary outcome was defined as incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), in-hospital mortality, and duration of MV. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were utilized to evaluate the association between sedation and the incidence of VAP. Univariate and multivariate Cox analyses were performed to investigate the correlation between sedative therapy and in-hospital mortality. Additionally, univariate and multivariate linear analyses were conducted to explore the relationship between sedation and duration of MV. Results: Compared to patients not receiving these medications, propofol alone, dexmedetomidine alone, combination of midazolam and dexmedetomidine, combination of propofol and dexmedetomidine, combination of midazolam, propofol and dexmedetomidine were all association with an increased risk of VAP; dexmedetomidine alone, combination of midazolam and dexmedetomidine, combination of propofol and dexmedetomidine, combination of midazolam, propofol and dexmedetomidine may be protective factor for in-hospital mortality, while propofol alone was risk factor. There was a positive correlation between all types of tranquilizers and the duration of MV. Taking dexmedetomidine alone as the reference, all other drug groupswere found to be associatedwith an increased risk of inhospital mortality. The administration of propofol alone, in combination with midazolam and dexmedetomidine, in combination with propofol and dexmedetomidine, in combination with midazolam, propofol and dexmedetomidine were associated with an increased risk of VAP compared to the use of dexmedetomidine alone. Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine alone may present as a favorable prognostic option for ICU patients with mechanical ventilation MV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Use of sedatives and analgesics is associated with the occurrence of delirium in critically ill patients receiving mechanical ventilation. Dexmedetomidine reduces the occurrence of delirium but may cause hypotension, bradycardia, and insufficient sedation. This substudy aims to determine whether the combination of esketamine with dexmedetomidine can reduce the side effects and risk of delirium than dexmedetomidine alone in mechanically ventilated patients. Methods: This single-center, randomized, active-controlled, superiority trial will be conducted at The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University. A total of 134 mechanically ventilated patients will be recruited and randomized to receive either dexmedetomidine alone or esketamine combined with dexmedetomidine, until extubation or for a maximum of 14 days. The primary outcome is the occurrence of delirium, while the second outcomes include the number of delirium-free days; subtype, severity, and duration of delirium; time to first onset of delirium; total dose of vasopressors and antipsychotics; duration of mechanical ventilation; ICU and hospital length of stay (LOS); accidental extubation, re-intubation, re-admission; and mortality in the ICU at 14 and 28 days. Discussion: There is an urgent need for a new combination regimen of dexmedetomidine due to its evident side effects. The combination of esketamine and dexmedetomidine has been applied throughout the perioperative period. However, there is still a lack of evidence on the effects of this regimen on delirium in mechanically ventilated ICU patients. This substudy will evaluate the effects of the combination of esketamine and dexmedetomidine in reducing the risk of delirium for mechanically ventilated patients in ICU, thus providing evidence of this combination to improve the short-term prognosis. The study protocol has obtained approval from the Medical Ethics Committee (ID: 2022-SR-450). Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05466708, registered on 20 July 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Percutaneous endoscopic transforaminal discectomy (PETD) is an effective method for treating lumbar disc herniation, and is typically performed under local anesthesia. However, inadequate analgesia during the procedure remains a concern, prompting the search for a medication that can provide optimal pain control with minimal impact on the respiratory and circulatory systems. Objectives: The aim of this study was to observe the effects of different doses of esketamine combined with dexmedetomidine on reducing visual analog scale (VAS) scores during surgical interventions. Methods: One hundred two patients who underwent PETD were randomly divided into a control group (group C: normal saline + dexmedetomidine), an E1 group (0.1 mg kg−1 esketamine + dexmedetomidine), and an E2 group (0.2 mg kg−1 esketamine + dexmedetomidine). The primary outcome was the maximum visual analogue scale (VAS) (score: 0 = no pain and 10 = worst pain) at six time points. The secondary outcomes included the Assessment of Alertness/Sedation Scale (OAA/S) score and mean arterial pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), and oxygen saturation (SpO2) at 11 time points. The incidence of adverse reactions during and 24 h after the operation and patient satisfaction with the anesthesia were also recorded. Results: Compared with those in group C, the VAS scores of patients in groups E1 and E2 were lower at T6, T7, and T9 (P < 0.05). From T4 to T10, the OAA/S scores of the E1 and E2 groups were both lower than those of group C (P < 0.05), and at the T4–T6 time points, the OAA/S score of the E2 group was lower than that of group E1 (P < 0.05). At T4 and T5, the HR and BP of patients in groups E1 and E2 were greater than those in group C (P < 0.05). Compared with those in group C, the incidences of intraoperative illusion, floating sensation, postoperative dizziness, and hyperalgesia in groups E1 and E2 were significantly greater (P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in patient RR, SpO2, or postoperative satisfaction with anesthesia among the three groups (P > 0.05). Conclusion: The combination of esketamine and dexmedetomidine can reduce VAS scores during certain stages of this type of surgery; it has minimal impact on respiration and circulation. However, this approach is associated with increased incidences of postoperative dizziness and psychiatric side effects, which may also affect patients' compliance with surgical instructions from medical staff. Patient satisfaction was not greater with dexmedetomidine combined with esketamine than with dexmedetomidine alone. Trial Registration: http://www.chictr.org.cn. Identifier: ChiCTR2300068206. Date of registration: 10 February 2023. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Present an approach to the safe and efficient provision of anesthesia and birth control measures to a large group of primates. ANIMALS: 98 hamadryas baboons (Papio hamadryas) held in a German zoological institution. METHODS: A group of 12 veterinarians, 2 zookeepers, and 6 volunteers anesthetized all animals within 2 days. The baboons were orally premedicated with midazolam (0.1 to 0.5 mg/kg) and anesthetized with medetomidine (40 to 60 μg/kg, IM) and ketamine (2 to 4 mg/kg, IM); isoflurane at rates of 1.5% to 2% was used for maintaining anesthesia if necessary. All animals received a physical examination, prophylactic medication, and tuberculin testing. For population management, the animals received a contraceptive implant (adult females), orchiectomy (young males), or vasectomy (breeding males). Young males received intratesticular blocks with lidocaine. All animals received atipamezole (125 to 150 μg/kg) before recovery. RESULTS: Premedication resulted in anxiolysis, which facilitated separating and darting. Median time from darting to access to the animal was 10 minutes. Mean anesthetic times were 25 minutes for females and 55 minutes for males. The depth of anesthesia was appropriate for the procedures. No fatalities were recorded. One animal was injured by other baboons but recovered after treatment. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Health management and birth control measures are necessary in baboon troops under human care. Anesthesia and/or contraception of individual animals often leads to intraspecific aggression. This case series describes how to provide anesthesia and contraception to an entire troop as an alternative approach that can be adopted to future similar interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to compare the effects of low-dose subarachnoid injections of 2% lidocaine (LIDO) and 0.5% bupivacaine (BUPI) in goats. ANIMALS: 6 healthy, privately owned female goats. METHODS In this randomized blind crossover clinical trial, each goat received 0.05 mL/kg-1 of LIDO, BUPI, or sterile saline solution into the lumbosacral subarachnoid space, with a seven-day washout. Cardiorespiratory variables, rectal temperature, and somatosensory (pinprick) and motor (ataxia) functions were recorded at baseline (time 0) and 2, 5, 10, 15, and 30 minutes after injection, then every 20 minutes until the goat was standing and able to walk. Time to regain somatosensory and motor functions was compared between treatments using Kaplan-Meier survival curves and the Cox proportional hazards model. Linear mixed-effects models were used to compare cardiorespiratory variables between treatments and over time. A P value ≤ .05 was considered significant. RESULTS: Somatosensory recovery was longer with BUPI, though not statistically significant. The median time to stand was 50 (50, 67) minutes after LIDO injection and 104 (101, 156) minutes after BUPI injection (P = .031). The median time to walk was 72 (54, 85) minutes after LIDO versus 225 (220, 245) minutes after BUPI injection (P = .031). Cardiovascular and respiratory variables showed no significant differences between treatments. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Despite prolonged ataxia with BUPI, pinprick sensation recovery did not differ. At reduced doses, both LIDO and BUPI are deemed acceptable for short procedures of the flank, pelvic limb, or tail in healthy goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the topical antiseptic activity of saline, chlorhexidine (CHX), and povidone-iodine (PI) scrubs on the skin of chickens with or without the addition of DuraPrep (DP). ANIMALS: 7 healthy adult Orpington hens (Gallus gallus domesticus). METHODS: The right apterium corporale laterale was swabbed for standard aerobic bacterial culture and colony-forming unit (CFU) determination. The apterium was divided into 3 areas and treated with sterile saline, CHX, or PI. Samples were collected by swabbing each area before and after additional treatment with DP. CFU's were counted after 48 hours of incubation. Statistical analysis was performed using a linear mixed model with a continuous outcome. RESULTS: Compared to saline, CHX and PI treatment without DP decreased CFU count by 119 (95% CI, 55 to 183; P < .001) and 123 (95% CI, 58 to 187; P < .001), respectively. The application of DP after CHX and PI further decreased CFU counts by 6 (P = .01) and 9 (P = .01), respectively. DP after saline treatment decreased counts by 128 CFU (95% CI, 63 to 192; P < .001). No significant difference was detected between saline, PI, or CHX after DP application (-1.0 CFU; 95% CI, 63.4 to -65.4; P = .98 for both PI and CHX). CLINICAL RELEVANCE: CHX or PI provided greater reductions in bacterial CFU than saline, and all combinations with DP provided similar results. No notable cutaneous reactions were detected at any point. This data suggests that a scrub protocol including CHX or PI with DP is acceptable in surgical site preparation of chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE To assess the level of anxiolysis achieved by alprazolam and gabapentin in hospitalized cats prior to elective ovariohysterectomy and to evaluate the sedative effects of these agents. ANIMALS 60 client-owned female cats classified as American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status 1, admitted for elective ovariohysterectomy at a veterinary teaching hospital. METHODS The cats were prospectively and randomly allocated into 3 groups. Ninety minutes before evaluation, group G received gabapentin (100 mg/cat), group A received alprazolam (0.125 mg/cat), and group P received no medication (placebo). Stress, enclosure activity, and sedation scores were blindly evaluated. RESULTS Stress scores were similar in cats treated with gabapentin and alprazolam and gabapentin-treated cats had significantly lower stress score than those of the placebo group. Enclosure activity levels did not differ among the groups. Additionally, gabapentin and alprazolam resulted in similar sedation levels 90 minutes after treatment, which differed significantly compared to placebo. CLINICAL RELEVANCE The results of this study suggest that gabapentin provides similar anxiolysis in cats to that of alprazolam when evaluated 90 minutes after administration. Although no difference was noted in sedation levels between gabapentin and alprazolam. both induced deeper sedation than placebo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This randomized controlled trial aimed to compare the effects of butorphanol and sufentanil on early post-operative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) and systemic inflammation in older surgical patients. Methods: Patients (aged 65  years or above) undergoing surgeries with general anesthesia were randomized to either the butorphanol group (40  μg/kg during anesthesia induction) or the sufentanil group (0.4  μg/kg). Cognitive function changes during the perioperative period were assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scale up to 3  days after surgery. POCD was defined as a Z-score or composite Z-score greater than 1.96 for both MMSE and MoCA scores. Circulating inflammatory factors, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), and interleukin 10 (IL-10), were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: The study included 114 patients (median age: 71  years, 57.7% male). Compared to sufentanil, butorphanol significantly reduced the incidence of POCD on the first (11.5% versus 32.7%, p  =  0.017) and third day (3.8% versus 15.4%, p  =  0.046) after surgery. Additionally, patients receiving butorphanol had significantly lower circulating levels of TNF-α and IL-1β at the time of discharge from the post-anesthesia care unit and on the first and third day after surgery (p  <  0.05 for all comparisons). Furthermore, circulating IL-10 levels were significantly higher in patients receiving butorphanol (p  <  0.05 for all comparisons). Conclusion: Administration of butorphanol during anesthesia induction, as opposed to sufentanil, was associated with a significant reduction in the early incidence of POCD in older surgical patients, possibly attributed to its impact on systemic inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study aimed to assess the efficacy of a sacrococcygeal epidural (ScE) of 0.25% bupivacaine in preventing sympathetic nervous system activation on feline ovariectomy. During the intraoperative period, traditional hemodynamic variables (heart rate, systolic and median blood pressure, and respiratory rate) and Parasympathetic Tone Activity monitoring were used to assess the activation of the sympathetic nervous system after ScE of 0.25% bupivacaine. This study indicates that implementation of ScE reduces the rise of common hemodynamic variables but does not prevent sympathetic nervous system activation during feline ovariectomy. The ovariectomy (OVE) procedure can trigger somatosensory and visceral peritoneal nociception. Sacrococcygeal epidural (ScE) anesthesia may complement or replace systemic analgesia used for feline OVE, reducing opioid consumption and their related undesirable adverse effects and consequently reducing or completely blocking the sympathetic nervous system activation during this procedure. The present study aimed to evaluate the activation of the sympathetic nervous system resulting from adding an ScE injection of bupivacaine 0.25% (0.3 mL kg−1) in feline OVE and identify whether this translates to hemodynamic variables stability. A Parasympathetic Tone Activity (PTA) monitor was applied given that it performs analysis of heart rate variability (HRV) detecting changes in sympathetic and parasympathetic tone, making it a good tool for detecting activation of the sympathetic nervous system during the study. Two groups of animals were evaluated in five perioperative times, namely, the control group (CG) (n = 18) with systemic analgesia alone and the sacrococcygeal epidural group (ScEG) (n = 20) with 0.25% bupivacaine combined with systemic analgesia. Thirty-eight female cats were selected. All animals assigned to CG and ScEG were premedicated with dexmedetomidine (20 μg kg−1 IM) and methadone (0.2 mg kg−1 IM). General anesthesia was induced with propofol IV ad effectum and maintained with isoflurane in 100% oxygen. Heart rate, non-invasive systolic and median blood pressure, respiratory rate, and instantaneous parasympathetic tone activity were recorded. Compared to systemic analgesia alone (CG), sacrococcygeal epidural (ScEG) reduced the rise of common hemodynamic variables but did not prevent sympathetic nervous system activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the influence of butorphanol pretreatment combined with ultrasound-guided thoracic paraverte- bral nerve block anesthesia (TPVB) on analgesic effect and stress response in patients undergoing thoracoscopic radical resection of lung cancer. Methods: Sixty patients with lung cancer in our hospital were selected from May 2021 to June 2022 and were classified into ob- servation group (n=30) and control group (n=30) by random number table method. Both groups received intravenous anesthesia and were treated with patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) after surgery, and the observation group performed ultrasound-guided TPVB before surgery and was given butorphanol pretreatment. The hemodynamics, anesthetic effect, postoperative pain status, stress response and occurrence of adverse reactions were compared between the two groups. Results: Compared with To, the heart rate (HR) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) in the two groups were decreased at T1 (P<0.05). The HR and MAP were increased at T2 in the two groups compared with those at T 1(P<0.05). The HR and MAP at T2 and T3 in observation group were lower compared to control group (P<0.05). The propofol dosage, remifentanil dosage, extubation time and PCIA use frequency in observation group were lower, shorter or less than those in control group (P<0.05). At 8 h, 12 h and 24 h after surgery, the pain degrees at rest and cough in observation group were milder than those in control group(P<0.05). After surgery, the levels of epinephrine (E), cortisol (Cor) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) were risen in the two groups (P<0.05), but the observation group had lower levels (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the total incidence rate of adverse reactions between the two groups (P>0.05). Conclusion: Butorphanol pretreatment combined with ultrasound-guided TPVB can control the hemodynamics and total dosage of opioids of patients undergoing thoracoscopic radical resection of lung cancer, shorten the extubation time, and relieve the postoperative pain and stress response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goals of this study were to evaluate the effectiveness and physiological effects of alfaxalone-butorphanolmidazolam sedation in cats compared with the common sedation protocol used at our institution; medetomidine-butorphanol-midazolam. Thirty-one cats requiring sedation for various procedures were recruited randomly to receive intramuscular butorphanol (0.4 mg/kg) and midazolam (0.3 mg/kg) combined with alfaxalone (2 mg/kg) (ABM; n=16) or medetomidine (0.02 mg/kg) (MBM; n=15). Physiological variables and sedation quality (scale 7-28; 7=awake, 28=deeply sedated) were collected every 10 minutes until recovery. For medetomidine antagonism, the MBM cats received atipamezole intramuscularly. Induction and recovery times were recorded, and recovery quality was scored (1-4 scale: 1=poor, 4=excellent). Evaluations were performed by one blinded observer. Mann-Whitney U test, Fischer's exact and repeated measures mixedeffects were used for analysis, and p<0.05 was set for significance. Six cats (ABM) and three cats (MBM) required an additional dose. At 10-40 minutes sedation scores were significantly better in the MBM (21-24) compared with ABM group (19-20). Significant lower heart rate, higher blood pressure and respiratory frequency were recorded in the MBM group. Time to recovery was significantly faster (9±7 versus 26±21 minutes) and recovery of better quality (4 [1-4] versus 3 [1-4]) in the MBM compared with the ABM group. During recovery, cats in the ABM group showed opisthotonos, twitching, and paddling, which resolved within an hour. In conclusion, at the doses used, ABM was a viable alternative to MBM with less cardiovascular effects, however, sedation plane was inferior and recovery, longer, accompanied by adverse behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To probe into the application value of butorphanol combined with dexmedetomidine on analgesia and sedation in mechanically ventilated patients with hyperlipidemic severe acute pancreatitis. METHODS: Clinical data of 103 patients with hyperlipidemic severe acute pancreatitis diagnosed and treated in ICU department in the People’ s Hospital of Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture from Mar. 2020 to Feb. 2023 were retrospectively analyzed, which were divided into observation group ( 53 cases, epidural block + butorphanol + dexmedetomidine) and control group (50 cases, epidural block+butorphanol) according to the analgesic and sedative schemes during mechanical ventilation. The analgesic and sedative effects and inflammatory factors levels from before medication to 120 h of medication, and the incidence of adverse drug reaction during treatment were statistically analyzed. RESULTS: In both groups, the Critical Care Pain Observation Tool (CPOT) scores were lower at 48 h of medication, and were in a decrease trend from 48 h to 120 h of medication, the differences were statistically significant compared with those of before medication (P<0. 05); the CPOT scores of the observation group were lower than those of the control group from 48 h to 120 h of medication, with statistically significant differences (P<0. 05). The Ramsay sedation score of both groups at 48 h of medication was higher than that before medication; the score of the observation group was lower than that of the control group from 72 h to 120 h of medication, with statistically significant differences (P<0. 05). After medication, the serum interleukin (IL) 1β, IL-6 and tumour necrosis factor α levels of both groups were lower than those before medication, and those of the observation group were lower than the control group, with statistically significant differences (P<0. 05). In the comparisons of the incidence of adverse drug reactions such as delirium, tremor, hypotension, bradycardia and vomiting between two groups, the differences were not statistically significant ( P>0. 05 ). CONCLUSIONS: The application of butorphanol combined with dexmedetomidine on mechanically ventilated patients with hyperlipidaemic severe acute pancreatitis can strengthen the analgesic and sedative effect, improve the anti-inflammatory effect, without increasing adverse drug reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The aim of the study was to compare the analgesic efficacy of butorphanol and lidocaine, alone or in combination, in calves undergoing surgical repair of umbilical hernia. The study was conducted in 60 calves of different breeds. Xylazine 0.3 mg/kg was administered intramuscularly to all animals in the study. The animals were then divided into three groups (n = 20) that received different treatments with lidocaine at 4.5 mg/kg and butorphanol at 0.02 mg/kg. The L group received lidocaine both by infiltration of the surgical planes and intraperitoneally, the B group received butorphanol both by infiltration of the surgical planes and intraperitoneally, and finally the LB group received lidocaine by infiltration of the surgical planes and butorphanol intraperitoneally. Heart and respiratory rates, haemoglobin oxygen saturation, non-invasive blood pressure and temperature were recorded during surgery. Response to the surgical stimulus was scored on a cumulative numerical scale that included percentage changes in HR, RR and SAP. Postoperative pain was assessed by three independent observers, blinded to treatment, using the UNESP-Botucatu Unidimensional Composite Pain Scale (UNESP-Botucatu UCPS-IV) for the assessment of postoperative pain in cattle. The course of physiological variables was appropriate for patients under anaesthesia. No subject required rescue intraoperative analgesia. In group L, 4 subjects at 40 m and 5 subjects at 50 m required postoperative rescue analgesia. Both butorphanol alone and the combination of butorphanol and lidocaine showed excellent intraoperative and postoperative scores. Furthermore, this combination did not cause any cardiopulmonary or other adverse effects. Based on the results of this study, both butorphanol alone and the co-administration of butorphanol and lidocaine administered locally proved to be safe and effective in providing adequate and long-lasting analgesia in calves, helping to reduce postoperative discomfort and maintaining adequate animal welfare.

Background: The intramuscular (IM) administration of 7.5–10 mg/kg of alfaxalone produces anesthetic effects that enabled endotracheal intubation with mild cardiorespiratory depression in dogs. However, the effects of IM co-administration of medetomidine, butorphanol, and alfaxalone on cardiorespiratory function under inhalation anesthesia have not been studied. Aim: To assess the cardiorespiratory function following the IM co-administration of 5 μg/kg of medetomidine, 0.3 mg/kg of butorphanol, and 2.5 mg/kg of alfaxalone (MBA) in dogs anesthetized with sevoflurane. Methods: Seven intact healthy Beagles (three males and four females, aged 3–6 years old and weighing 10.0–18.1 kg) anesthetized with a predetermined minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of sevoflurane were included in this study. The baseline cardiorespiratory variable values were recorded using the thermodilution method with a pulmonary artery catheter after stabilization for 15 min at 1.3 times their individual sevoflurane MAC. The cardiorespiratory variables were measured again following the IM administration of MBA. Data are expressed as median [interquartile range] and compared with the corresponding baseline values using the Friedman test and Sheff's method. A P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The intramuscular administration of MBA transiently decreased the cardiac index (baseline: 3.46 [3.18–3.69], 5 min: 1.67 [1.57–1.75] L/min/m2 : P < 0.001), respiratory frequency, and arterial pH. In contrast, it increased the systemic vascular resistance index (baseline: 5,367 [3,589–6,617], 5 min:10,197 [9,955–15,005] dynes sec/cm5/m2 : P = 0.0092), mean pulmonary arterial pressure, and arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide. Conclusion: The intramuscular administration of MBA in dogs anesthetized with sevoflurane transiently decreased cardiac output due to vasoconstriction. Although spontaneous breathing was maintained, MBA administration resulted in respiratory acidosis due to hypoventilation. Thus, it is important to administer MBA with caution to dogs with insufficient cardiovascular function. In addition, ventilatory support is recommended. [Open Vet J 2024; 14(5.000): 1251-1258]

Abstract Many patients who underwent hepatic percutaneous microwave ablation (MWA) reported experiencing pain during the procedure. This study utilized a well-designed multicentral, randomized, and placebo-controlled format to investigate the effects of Butorphanol. Patients who underwent MWA were randomly assigned to either Butorphanol or normal saline group. The primary outcomes of the study were assessed by measuring the patients' intraoperative pain levels using a 10-point visual analog scale (VAS). Secondary outcomes included measuring postoperative pain levels at the 6-h mark (VAS) and evaluating comprehensive pain assessment outcomes. A total of 300 patients were divided between the control group (n = 100) and the experimental group (n = 200). Butorphanol showed statistically significant reductions in intraoperative pain levels compared to the placebo during surgery (5.00 ± 1.46 vs. 3.54 ± 1.67, P

Background: High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) therapy has emerged as a promising treatment modality for interstitial lung disease (ILD)-related respiratory failure. This systematic review aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of HFNC therapy in patients with ILDs. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using major electronic databases to identify relevant studies investigating the use of HFNC therapy in ILD patients with respiratory failure. Outcome measures of interest included improvements in oxygenation, dyspnea relief, respiratory rate control, hospital length of stay, and mortality. Results: Twelve studies were analyzed with an overall population of 715 patients included. Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) was the most prevalent type of ILD. Evaluated clinical settings were acute (7 studies), chronic (2 studies), and end-stage (3 studies) ILDs. The HFNC as a support for acute respiratory failure seems not inferior to non-invasive ventilation while offering better comfort and patient's perception. Poor data are available about use in chronic/long-term or rehabilitative settings. In end of life/palliative care, an HFNC might improve quality of life. Despite the promising results, further research is warranted to establish optimal HFNC protocols, identify patient subgroups most likely to benefit, and explore long-term outcomes. Conclusions: Overall, the HFNC appears to be a valuable therapeutic option for managing respiratory failure in ILD patients, offering potential improvements in oxygenation and symptom relief. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Medetomidine and dexmedetomidine, commonly used in veterinary practice, induce sedation, muscle relaxation and analgesia. Reduced heart rate is one of the most common side effects of these anaesthetics. Other undesirable effects include increased vascular resistance, deterioration of blood supply to some tissues, and a decrease in cardiac output. These effects can be fatal in a critically ill patient. This study aimed to compare the haemodynamically depressive effects of butorphanol-medetomidine and butorphanol-dexmedetomidine combinations on echocardiographic parameters during propofol anaesthesia in dogs and to determine which anaesthetic produces fewer adverse cardiovascular effect. This study compared the effects of butorphanol-medetomidine and butorphanol-dexmedetomidine combinations on echocardiographic parameters during propofol anaesthesia in dogs. The dogs were randomly divided into two groups. In the butorphanol-medetomidine (BM) group, butorphanol (0.2 mg/kg) and medetomidine (15 μg/kg) were intravenously administered; in the butorphanol-dexmedetomidine (BD) group, butorphanol (0.2 mg/kg) and dexmedetomidine (7.5 μg/kg) was used. Anaesthesia was induced with propofol and maintained with a constant-rate infusion of propofol (0.2 mg/kg/min). The echocardiographic parameters were assessed in conscious dogs (T0). Echocardiography was conducted again at 10 min post premedication (T1), followed by assessments at 30 (T2), 60 (T3), and 90 (T4) mins. The dogs were subjected to diagnostic procedures (radiography, computed tomography) under anaesthesia. A significant reduction in heart rate and cardiac output was noted in both groups at T1. There was no significant difference in the stroke volume between the BM and BD groups. The application of butorphanol-dexmedetomidine caused a significant increase in the left ventricular internal diameter in diastole and the diameter of the left atrium compared to that caused by butorphanol-medetomidine. This study documented that butorphanol-medetomidine and butorphanol-dexmedetomidine combinations caused similar reductions in heart rate and cardiac output in both groups. 'New´ valvular regurgitation occurred following their administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Oxidative stress is a metabolic state in which the organism possesses more oxidative compounds than antioxidant ones. This imbalance contributes to the formation of multiple pathologies and can be caused by different methods of drug administration, surgery, and anesthesia. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effect of two different anesthetic protocols on oxidative stress and vital parameters. Ten dogs were randomly assigned into two groups and received different anesthetic agents during anesthesia for female spaying procedures. It was noted and concluded that the administration of medetomidine–butorphanol contributed to higher values of oxidative stress markers during different time frames when compared to the medetomidine–buprenorphine group. Even though the cardiorespiratory parameters were stable throughout the study in all dogs, the medetomidine–butorphanol group experienced greater alterations in vital parameters during anesthesia. Therefore, this study suggests that medetomidine–buprenorphine might be a superior anesthetic combination in comparison to medetomidine–butorphanol. Oxidative stress (OS) is caused by an imbalance between the production of oxygen-containing free radicals and their elimination. General anesthesia increases the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and therefore causes oxidative stress. Our objective was to determine the effects of medetomidine–butorphanol (MEDBUT) and medetomidine–buprenorphine (MEDBUP) on oxidative stress and cardiorespiratory parameters in dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy (OHE). Ten healthy female dogs were randomly assigned to two groups: the MEDBUT group (n = 5) received medetomidine and butorphanol, while the MEDBUP group (n = 5) received medetomidine and buprenorphine. OS was evaluated by measuring total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI) during five different time points (from the administration of anesthetic drugs to 2 h after surgery). The observed vital cardiorespiratory parameters included heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (fR), noninvasive systolic (SAP) and diastolic (DAP) arterial blood pressures, oxygen saturation (SpO2), end-tidal CO2 (EtCO2), and body temperature (BT). Cardiorespiratory parameters were altered at a significantly greater degree in animals sedated with MEDBUT (p < 0.05). The administration of medetomidine–butorphanol was more likely to increase OS parameters, while medetomidine–buprenorphine showed decreased levels of oxidative stress throughout the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alfaxalone is a commonly employed veterinary anaesthetic induction and sedation agent. A 4% w/v preserved, aqueous formulation of alfaxalone 'RD0387' (A4%) has recently been developed. To evaluate the sedative effects of A4%, three doses, 5 mg kg−1 (A5); 7.5 mg kg−1 (A7.5) and 10 mg kg−1 (A10) were administered intramuscularly into the epaxial musculature of six healthy adult mixed‐breed dogs in an experimental, randomized, blinded, crossover study. Sedation time variables, quality of sedation (including onset of sedation and recovery), physiological variables, response to cephalic vein catheterization and frequency of undesirable events were recorded. Continuous variables were analysed between treatments (one‐way ANOVA or restricted maximum likelihood modelling) and within treatments compared with baseline (Tukey's test). Categorical data were analysed between treatments (Kruskal‐Wallis' test) and within treatments from baseline (Dunn's test). Significance was set at p <.05. All dogs became sedated (laterally recumbent) and sedation onset was significantly faster in groups A7.5 (9.8 ± 5.3 min) and A10 (9.1 ± 5.6 min) compared to A5 (25.6 ± 16.1 min) (p =.033, p =.027, respectively). Duration of sedation was significantly longer in A10 (168.5 ± 70.6 min) and A7.5 (143.8 ± 58 min) compared to A5 (63.8 ± 28.2 min) (p =.005 and p =.003, respectively). Dogs in A10 had a superior quality of onset of sedation compared to A5 (p =.028). Sedation scores and quality of recovery from sedation were not significantly different between doses. Two dogs (2/6) in A5 were insufficiently sedated for cephalic catheterization. Ataxia was the most frequently observed undesirable event with an overall frequency of 78% (14/18) and 89% (16/18) during sedation onset and recovery, respectively. Overall, A4% administered IM in dogs at 7.5 and 10 mg kg−1 resulted in sufficient sedation for IV catheterization in dogs. To improve the speed and quality of the sedation, it is recommended that future research focuses on combining A4% with other sedative or analgesic drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study evaluated two different anaesthetic protocols in dogs (n=24) for anaesthetic parameters like dose of anaesthetic agents for induction and maintenance of anaesthesia, quality of sedation, induction, maintenance of anaesthesia and recovery. All the animals were first premedicated with butorphanol @ 0.2 mg/kg b.wt. and xylazine @ 1 mg/kg b.wt., i/m, simultaneously. After 15 min of preanaesthetic medication, induction and maintenance of anaesthesia was achieved by administration of propofol @ 3 mg/kg b.wt., i/v in Group-I (n=12) and tiletamine-zolazepam @ 2 mg/kg b.wt., i/v in Group-II (n=12). Both protocols showed excellent quality of induction and maintenance of anaesthesia in the all animals. Physiological parameters like heart rate, respiration rate, rectal temperature and blood saturation of oxygen altered at different time intervals during the anaesthesia, but remained in normal physiological range. Xylazine and butorphanol preanesthetics showed dose sparing effect on induction and maintenance dose of propofol. Propofol resulted in excellent recovery quality and shorter recovery time compared to tiletamine-zolazepam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: General anesthesia has several main goals, including pain management and cardiovascular support. In this retrospective study, we compared two anesthetic protocols for general anesthesia with isoflurane in horses undergoing emergency laparotomy. In the first, xylazine was administered followed by an intraoperative infusion of lidocaine. In the latter, medetomidine was used for preoperative sedation and intraoperative infusion. We reviewed medical records and registered intraoperative variables, recovery time and quality, and short-term outcomes. Horses receiving preanesthetic xylazine sedation followed by intraoperative infusion showed more respiratory depression and a higher heart rate at the beginning of the surgery prior to lidocaine infusion and at the end of the surgery after the discontinuation of lidocaine infusion, which may indicate insufficient analgesia during this time. Arterial pressure was better maintained when medetomidine was used. Recovery quality was similar, with a longer time required for horses receiving medetomidine. We can conclude that both protocols are suitable for general anesthesia with isoflurane in horses undergoing emergency laparotomy. Medetomidine provided more efficient analgesia at the beginning and end of surgery with longer recovery times, more suitable for anxious and young horses to prevent self-injury during this phase. (1) The main goals of general anesthesia include pain management and a safe anesthetic protocol for smooth recovery. In this retrospective study, we compared two anesthetic protocols for general anesthesia with isoflurane during emergency laparotomy: sedation with xylazine and the intraoperative infusion of lidocaine (X group) versus medetomidine as a preoperative sedation and intraoperative infusion (M group). (2) The medical records of horses who underwent emergency laparotomies between 2016 and 2023 were reviewed. According to the anesthetic protocol, patients were allocated to the X or M groups. Data about the horse, signalment, history, and anesthetic variables were analyzed. (3) Group X had a significantly higher heart rate (HR), lower respiratory rate (RR) and mean and diastolic arterial pressure (MAP/DAP). A progressive increase in HR and RR was observed in both groups. Group X underwent a decrease in RR and an increase in DAP. In Group M, a decrease in MAP and DAP was observed. Group M exhibited a longer recovery time with similar recovery scores. Both protocols provided safe anesthesia for emergency laparotomy, with minor cardiovascular and respiratory depression. Minor respiratory depression was detected when xylazine was used, while recovery was longer with medetomidine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Dexmedetomidine is a frequently used sedative; however, in some cases, its administration may prove insufficient; therefore, an additional dose or another drug is required to achieve the desired sedative outcome. The present study investigated the sedative effects of commonly used anaesthetics when administered after an inadequate initial dose of dexmedetomidine. Six healthy adult cats were included in the study, and each cat participated seven times. The initial dose of dexmedetomidine was followed by the administration of a second dose of dexmedetomidine, butorphanol, buprenorphine, tramadol, ketamine, midazolam, or saline NS 0.9%. Additionally, atipamezole was administered to all animals to elicit recovery. To assess the sedative effect of each treatment, a sedation scale was used, and recovery quality was evaluated using two recovery scales. The results suggested that the two consecutive doses of dexmedetomidine produced deeper sedation compared to the administration of a single dose of dexmedetomidine. Sedation levels were also enhanced by the administration of dexmedetomidine, butorphanol, or ketamine following the administration of an initial dose of dexmedetomidine, and the recovery quality was good. On the contrary, administration of midazolam following dexmedetomidine administration resulted in inferior sedation and recovery quality. Dexmedetomidine is an a2-agonist commonly used in veterinary practice. Occasionally, the administered dose of dexmedetomidine may result in insufficient sedation, and an additional dose or drug may be required. The sedative effects of seven different drugs administered at subsequent time points after an initial, insufficient dose of dexmedetomidine were evaluated. Seven adult cats participated in this crossover, blind, randomised study. The groups consisted of two consecutive doses of dexmedetomidine (15 + 10 μg/kg) (DD) or a dose of dexmedetomidine (15 μg/kg) followed by either NS 0.9% (DC-control group), tramadol 2 mg/kg (DT), butorphanol 0.2 mg/kg (DBT), buprenorphine 20 μg/kg (DBP), ketamine 2 mg/kg (DK), or midazolam 0.1 mg/kg (DM). Sedation was evaluated using the Grint sedation scale. In all groups, atipamezole was administered at the end of the evaluation, and recovery was assessed using the Lozano and Sams recovery scales. The DC and DM groups exhibited minimal sedative effects. The maximum sedative effect was observed in the DD and DK groups, while sedation in the DD and DK groups was significantly higher compared to the DC group. Recovery in all groups was uneventful, except in the DM group, where it was prolonged and difficult, although no statistically significant difference was detected. Therefore, insufficient sedation with dexmedetomidine can be enhanced by a subsequent dose of dexmedetomidine, ketamine, or butorphanol, whereas the addition of midazolam reduces sedation and prolongs recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Butorphanol is commonly administered, both by the intravenous and intramuscular routes, to racehorses to facilitate handling for diagnostic procedures. As the administration of butorphanol for therapeutic purposes is considered appropriate, in order to avoid inadvertent positive drug tests, a thorough understanding of the pharmacokinetics of this drug is necessary. In the current study, 12, exercised Thoroughbred horses were administered a single intramuscular dose of 0.1 mg/kg butorphanol, and serum and urine samples were collected at various times post drug administration for determination of butorphanol concentrations using a highly sensitive liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method. Serum data were modeled using a nonlinear mixed effect population PK model. The maximum concentration (Cmax) and time to maximum concentration (Tmax) were 139.9 ± 72.8 ng/mL and 0.43 ± 0.44 h (mean ± SD), respectively. Although likely not clinically relevant, but important for drug testing purposes, a prolonged terminal phase was observed, yielding a terminal half‐life of 7.67 ± 1.86 h. Using the blood screening limits proposed by the Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit, the detection time for intramuscular administration of butorphanol was estimated to be 96 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Butorphanol is a synthetic opioid analgesic medication that is primarily used for the management of pain. Butorphanol may have an inhibitory effect on androgen biosynthesis and metabolism in rat immature Leydig cells. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of butorphanol on androgen secretion by rat Leydig cells isolated from the 35-day-old male rats. Rat Leydig cells were cultured with 0.5–50 μM butorphanol for 3 h in vitro. Butorphanol at 5 and 50 μM significantly inhibited androgen secretion in immature Leydig cells. At 50 μM, butorphanol also blocked the effects of luteinizing hormone (LH) and 8bromo-cAMP-stimulated androgen secretion and 22R-hydroxycholesterol- and pregnenolone-mediated androgen production. Further analysis of the results showed that butorphanol downregulated the expression of genes involved in androgen production, including Lhcgr (LH receptor), Cyp11a1 (cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme), Srd5a1 (5α-reductase 1), and Akr1c14 (3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase). Additionally, butorphanol directly inhibited HSD3B1 (3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1) and SRD5A1 activity. In conclusion, butorphanol may have side effects of inhibiting androgen biosynthesis and metabolism in Leydig cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: The use of combinations of α2‐adrenergic agonists and opioids has been published as providing superior sedation than either drug alone. Objectives: The present study aimed to compare the sedative and physiological effects of intravenous (IV) administration of dexmedetomidine alone and in combination with methadone, morphine, tramadol or pethidine in miniature donkeys. Study design: Experimental, crossover Latin square, randomised, blinded study. Methods: Twelve clinically healthy miniature donkeys with a mean age of 6 ± 2 (mean ± SD) years, weight of 94 ± 5 kg and height at withers of 0.80 ± 0.06 m were assigned to six IV treatments. They received either 0.9% saline, 5 μg/kg dexmedetomidine, 5 μg/kg dexmedetomidine and 0.2 mg/kg methadone, 5 μg/kg dexmedetomidine and 0.1 mg/kg morphine, 5 μg/kg dexmedetomidine and 2 mg/kg tramadol or 5 μg/kg dexmedetomidine and 1 mg/kg pethidine, with a washout period of 8 days. The degree of sedation was investigated using a numerical ranking scale of 0–3. Heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), rectal temperature (RT) and intestinal motility were performed before and 5, 10, 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90 and 120 min after drug administration. Results: Animals in dexmedetomidine or dexmedetomidine/opioid treatments were sedated for 5–60 min. Sedation was significantly higher in dexmedetomidine/opioid treatments than in dexmedetomidine at 15–30 min (p < 0.05). In all treatments, HR and RR significantly decreased from baseline at 5–75 and 30–60 min, respectively (p < 0.05). Intestinal motility was decreased in dexmedetomidine and dexmedetomidine/opioid treatments at 5–60 and 5–90 min, respectively. Compared to dexmedetomidine, intestinal motility was significantly lower in dexmedetomidine/opioid treatments at 75–90 min. Main limitations: Assessment of only HR and RR are inadequate to describe the cardiorespiratory effects of dexmedetomidine/opioids. Conclusions: The use of combinations of dexmedetomidine/opioids would be considered for superior sedation for 15–30 min after administration in miniature donkeys. No significant differences were detected between opioids in combination with dexmedetomidine in miniature donkeys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to evaluate clinical, cardiorespiratory, and Doppler echocardiographic changes in rabbits sedated with midazolam and morphine combined with or without dexmedetomidine. This study was a blinded, randomized, controlled experiment that included 16 adult male New Zealand rabbits weighing 3.1 ± 0.3 kg. The animals were sedated using one of the following protocols: 1 mg/kg midazolam and 2 mg/kg morphine (MIDA, n = 8), or 25 mg/kg dexmedetomidine, 2 mg/kg morphine and 1 mg/kg midazolam (DEX, n = 8). Sedation latency, duration of the sedation and recovery period, sedation scores, heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (f), peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2), systolic arterial pressure (SAP), diastolic arterial pressure (DAP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and recta temperature were recorded, and Doppler echocardiography was performed. Latency periods were 7.3±1.6 min in the DEX group and 10.9 ± 5.0 min in the MIDA group (P = 0.112). Sedation duration was 122.4±14 min in the DEX group and 71.2 ± 32 min in the MIDA group (P = 0.005), whereas recovery time was 35.7±17.7 min in the DEX group and 32.5 ± 25.3 min in the MIDA group (P = 0.743). The sedation scores for the DEX group were significantly higher than those for the MIDA group throughout the monitoring period. Reductions in HR, SAP, MAP, and DAP values were observed in both groups relative to baseline values, and were significantly lower in the DEX group compared to the MIDA group. Minimal Doppler echocardiographic changes were observed. Dexmedetomidine used in combination with midazolam and morphine incremented the quality and duration of sedation in rabbits. Both protocols elicited cardiorespiratory changes that were welltolerated, with minimal changes in myocardial function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reports on respiratory function in white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) immobilized with etorphine-azaperone and the changes induced by butorphanol administration as part of a multifaceted crossover study that also investigated the effects of etorphine or etorphine-butorphanol treatments. Six male white rhinoceros underwent two immobilizations by using 1) etorphine-azaperone and 2) etorphine-azaperone-butorphanol. Starting 10 min after recumbency, arterial blood gases, limb muscle tremors, expired minute ventilation, and respiratory rate were evaluated at 5-min intervals for 25 min. Alveolar to arterial oxygen gradient, expected respiratory minute volume, oxygen consumption, and carbon dioxide production were calculated. Etorphine-azaperone administration resulted in hypoxemia and hypercapnia, with increases in alveolar to arterial oxygen gradient, oxygen consumption, and carbon dioxide production, and a decrease in expired minute ventilation. Muscle tremors were also observed. Intravenous butorphanol administration in etorphine-azaperone–immobilized white rhinoceros resulted in less hypoxemia and hypercapnia; a decrease in oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide production, and expired minute ventilation; and no change in the alveolar to arterial oxygen gradient and rate of breathing. We show that the immobilization of white rhinoceros with etorphine-azaperone results in hypoxemia and hypercapnia and that the subsequent intravenous administration of butorphanol improves both arterial blood oxygen and carbon dioxide partial pressures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present research work discusses the development and validation of a UV spectrophotometric method for butorphanol tartrate. Simple, accurate and cost efficient spectrophotometric method has been developed for the estimation of butorphanol tartrate in tablet dosage form. The optimum conditions for the analysis of the drug were established. The maximum wavelength (λ max) was found to be 278nm. The percentage recovery of butorphanol tartrate was in the 100.016±0.68. Beers law was obeyed in the concentration range of 2-12µg/ml. Calibration curves shows a linear relationship between the absorbance and concentration. The line equation y = 0.0674x - 0.0057 with r2 of 0.9998was obtained. Validation was performed according to ICH guidelines for linearity, accuracy, precision, LOD and LOQ. The sample solution was stable up to 36 hours. The proposed method may be suitable for the analysis of butorphanol tartrate in tablet formulation for quality control purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Craniotomy is a commonly performed surgical procedure in neuroscientific research that causes substantial pain in laboratory animals. The animals' invidious situation has received little previous attention, and therefore, to respect the 3R guidelines, including the minimisation of the animals' pain and suffering, we aimed to improve the conventional anaesthetic and analgesic regimens. The anti-nociceptive effects of four different drug combinations in laboratory mice undergoing general anaesthesia for craniotomies were investigated. Specifically, the efficacy of dexmedetomidine, which is known to have analgesic, sedative, and cardiorespiratory stabilising properties in other species, was evaluated. Our study demonstrated the beneficial effects of dexmedetomidine in mice as the signs of nociception were mitigated in the respective treatment groups. Pain refinement represents an important aspect of animal welfare in laboratory animals. Refining analgesia regimens in mice undergoing craniotomy has been sparsely investigated. Here, we sought to investigate the effect of dexmedetomidine in combination with other analgesic drugs on intraoperative anti-nociceptive effects and cardiorespiratory stability. All mice were anaesthetised with isoflurane and received local lidocaine infiltration at the surgical site. Mice were randomised into treatment groups consisting of either carprofen 5 mg kg−1 or meloxicam 5 mg kg−1 with or without dexmedetomidine 0.1 mg kg−1 administered subcutaneously. Intra-anaesthetic heart rates, breathing rates, isoflurane requirements, and arterial oxygen saturations were continuously monitored. We found that administration of dexmedetomidine significantly improved heart and breathing rate stability during two of four noxious stimuli (skin incision and whisker stimulation) compared to non-dexmedetomidine-treated mice and lowered isoflurane requirements throughout anaesthesia by 5–6%. No significant differences were found between carprofen and meloxicam. These results demonstrate that dexmedetomidine reduces nociception and provides intra-anaesthetic haemodynamic and respiratory stability in mice. In conclusion, the addition of dexmedetomidine to anaesthetic regimes for craniotomy offers a refinement over current practice for laboratory mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to assess antinociception and correlation of antinociception and hypothermic effects after intravenous opioids in dogs. Nine healthy male Beagles were enrolled in the study. They were acclimated to a thermal nociceptive device, then received three IV treatments (saline, butorphanol 0.4 mg/kg and methadone 0.5 mg/kg) in a randomized complete block design. Rectal temperature and thermal withdrawals were assessed prior to and 0.5–6 h after drug administration. One dog was excluded due to lack of withdrawal to thermal stimuli. Rectal temperatures were not significantly different between treatments at time 0, but significantly decreased from 0.5 to 5 h for both opioids compared to saline. Withdrawals were significantly decreased, compared to saline, from 0.5 to 4 h for butorphanol and 0.5–5 h for methadone. A significant (p =.0005) and moderate (R2 =.43) correlation between antinociception and hypothermia occurred. Based on these data, intravenous butorphanol (0.4 mg/kg) and methadone (0.5 mg/kg) provided 4 and 5 h of antinociception, respectively. Opioid hypothermia can serve as an easy, noninvasive and humane manner for preclinical assessment of opioid antinociception in dogs prior to evaluation in clinical trials. This is a major refinement in animal welfare for assessing novel opioids, opioid doses and dose intervals in dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]