Blood concentrations of 2,3-butanedione monoxime and some blood biochemical changes in Bubalus bubalis after intramuscular administration of this cholinesterase reactivator.

The blood levels of cholinesterase reactivator 2,3-butanedione monoxime were determined in buffalo calves following single intramuscular doses of 20 and 50 mg/kg body weight. Blood cholinesterases and other enzymatic activities were monitored at various times. The drug was rapidly absorbed with half-life of 0.09-0.12 h. The peak 2,3-butanedione monoxime blood concentrations of 24.7 +/- 0.3 and 38.9 +/- 1.7 micrograms/ml occurred at 10 min after 20 and 50 mg/kg doses, respectively. The elimination half-life varied between 3.05 +/- 0.12 and 3.80 +/- 0.19 h. Lack of adverse effect of 2,3-butanedione monoxime on blood cholinesterases and other enzymes indicated that intramuscular doses as high as 50 mg/kg may be safely employed in buffaloes.