Sedative effects of intramuscular administration of a low dose of romifidine in dogs.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate sedative effects of IM administration of a low dose of romifidine in dogs.

ANIMALS

13 healthy adult Beagles.

PROCEDURE

Physiologic saline solution (0.2 ml), 0.1 % romifidine (10, 20, or 40 microg/kg), or 10% xylazine (1 mg/kg) was given IM in a crossover study design. Heart rate, respiratory rate, rectal temperature, hemoglobin saturation, and scores for sedation, muscle relaxation, posture, auditory response, and positioning response were recorded before and at regular intervals for up to 240 minutes after drug administration.

RESULTS

Scores for sedation, muscle relaxation, posture, auditory response, and positioning response increased in a dose-dependent manner after romifidine administration. Sedation induced by the highest dose of romifidine (40 microg/kg) was comparable to that induced by xylazine (1 mg/kg). Heart rate, respiratory rate, and rectal temperature decreased in a dose-dependent manner after romifidine administration, but hemoglobin saturation did not change.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Romifidine (10, 20, or 40 microg/kg, IM) is an effective sedative in dogs, but causes a decrease in heart rate, respiratory rate, and rectal temperature.