[Comparative studies of the administration of relanium and fenactil as sedatives in sheep]

The objective of the studies was to examine the influence of sedatives drugs: Relanium and Fenactil on clinical parameters, blood pressure, blood composition, acid-base balance, arterial blood oxygenation, electrolytes, bilirubin and activity of enzymes in sera of sheep. Basing on these data the more effective drug for sedation in sheep has been chosen. It was found that intravenous injection of Relanium at a dose of 1 mg/kg b.w. enables an appropriate sedation with immobilisation lasting for 20 minutes, whereas Fenactil at a dose of 3 mg/kg b.w. injected intravenously caused a sedation of a various intensity lasting for about 20 minutes. Moreover, Fenactil revealed a depressive action in the respiratory center which was manifested by decrease in oxygenation of arterial blood and disturbances in acid-base balance. Relanium affected these parameters only slightly. The disturbances developing after Fenactil were more intense and long lasting. On the basis of the above data--Relanium (diazepam) appeared to be more convenient that Fenactil to sedation in sheep.