Clenbuterol (planipart(trade mark)) for the postponement of parturition in cattle

Clenbuterol is a highly specific, long-acting (four to eight hours) beta-two sympathomimetic which causes bronchodilation and tocolysis (myometrial paralysis). The tocolytic effect was explored as a means to control parturition and reduce dystocia. Forty-six heifers were injected i.m. with either Clenbuterol or saline placebo in a randomly controlled experiment. Animals were treated when a cervical dilation of five centimeters or more was detected by vaginal examination. Length of first, second and third stages of parturition, ease of parturition, maternal pelvic area and calf viability were compared between treatment groups. Treatment with Clenbuterol increased (P<0.025; 119 vs 468 mins) the time heifers were in Stage I. However, the lengths of Stages II and III, pelvic area at birth and calf viability were not influenced by treatment. Diameter of the cervix at treatment was negatively related to the length of Stage I delay. Pelvic area also significantly affected the length of Stage II. Clenbuterol effectively delays Stage I of parturition with no adverse effects on the fetus or dam.