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Metaproterenol intoxication in a dog.
1Department of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison 53706.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|November 15, 1990
Summary
Metaproterenol intoxication in a dog caused severe symptoms like tachycardia and vomiting. Beta-blocking drugs effectively resolved these signs, highlighting an unusual case of excessive sympathetic stimulation.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pharmacology
- Cardiovascular Toxicology
- Small Animal Medicine
Background:
- Metaproterenol is a beta-2 selective adrenergic agonist.
- Beta-2 agonists are commonly used in human and veterinary medicine for bronchodilation.
- Intoxication with metaproterenol is rare in canine patients.
Observation:
- A dog presented with tachycardia, tachypnea, weakness, vomiting, and a history of metaproterenol exposure.
- Diagnostic evaluations included electrocardiography (ECG) and echocardiography.
- Clinical signs suggested significant sympathetic nervous system overstimulation.
Findings:
- ECG revealed sinus tachycardia with intermittent ventricular tachycardia.
- Echocardiography demonstrated markedly enhanced systolic ventricular function.
- Treatment with beta-blocking agents, specifically propranolol and atenolol, was initiated.
Implications:
- Beta-blocker administration successfully reversed the clinical and cardiovascular effects of metaproterenol toxicity.
- This case underscores the potential for severe cardiovascular side effects from beta-agonist overdose in dogs.
- Prompt recognition and treatment with beta-antagonists are crucial for managing metaproterenol intoxication in canines.