The use of atropine to control heart rate responses during detomidine sedation in horses.

Detomidine is a sedative-analgesic which has a pharmacological profile similar to xylazine. There is evidence that the sedative effects are mediated through alpha-2 adrenoceptors. Cardiopulmonary responses were determined using detomidine as the principal agent and as a preanesthetic prior to the induction of general anesthesia. Compatibility with guaifenesin, sodium thia-mylal and halothane were determined. As in the case of xylazine, detomidine produces a slowing of heart rates. This was found to be either sinus bradycardia or heart block. There may be a corresponding increase in systolic blood pressures. The respiratory pattern is altered through the arterial blood gases and pH data supported evidence of adequate ventilation. The heart rate response to detomidine without anticholinergic treatment was transient and related to he duration of drug action. Atropine sulfate, 0.02 mg/kg i.v. was effective in preventing or treating bradycardia or heart block from detomidine. Heart rates also increased during the administration of guaifenesin and sodium thia-mylal when given 50 min poisit-detomidine.