Evaluation of triflupromazine as a sedative in camels (Camelus dromedarius)

Effects of administration of triflupromazine were evaluated in 11 adult domesticated camels (Camelus dromedarius) weighing 403 +/- 29.5 kg (Mean +/- SE). Six camels were used to evaluate sedative properties of the drug and its effects on haematological and blood biochemical parameters. In the remaining 5 camels, effects on haemodynamics, acid base status and blood gases were studied. In all the animals triflupromazine was administered intramuscularly in the gluteal region at the rate of 2 mg/kg. Camels voluntarily sat down 48.9 +/- 5.4 min after administration of the drug but stood up again if disturbed. Drowsiness, drooping of lower lip and salivation were evident. The animals stood on their own and started walking with ataxia after 159 +/- 7 min and recovered completely from the effect of drug within 259 +/- 23 min. The drug caused a significant tachycardia and a moderate hypotension. The decrease in central venous pressure was also significant. Rectal temperature, respiratory rate, acid base status, blood gases, haemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume, total erythrocyte count, total leucocyte count, differential leukocyte count, blood urea nitrogen, plasma alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphatase, blood glucose and plasma concentrations of sodium, potassium, chloride and inorganic phosphate were not significantly affected by triflupromazine.