Effect of injection site on alfaxalone-induced sedation in ball pythons (Python regius)

To evaluate the sedative and cardiorespiratory effects of alfaxalone in ball pythons following subcutaneous administration in the cranial versus caudal third of the body.

In a prospective, randomised, blinded, complete crossover study, eight ball pythons ( Python regius ) received alfaxalone in the cranial or caudal third of the body. Sedative and cardiorespiratory parameters were recorded.

Administration of alfaxalone in the cranial third of the body resulted in significantly deeper and longer sedation compared with administration in the caudal third of the body. Righting reflex was lost in five of eight snakes following cranial injection compared with one of eight snakes after caudal injection. Jaw tone was lost in all snakes following cranial injection and intubation was successfully performed in seven. In contrast, snakes did not lose jaw tone and intubation was not possible following caudal injection. Heart rate and respiratory rate were significantly decreased following administration of alfaxalone in the cranial third of the body.

Administration of drugs that undergo hepatic metabolism or excretion should not be performed in the caudal third of the body in snakes, because it can result in significantly reduced drug efficacy. A hepatic first-pass effect is assumed to be the most likely underlying cause for the observed effect because part of the venous return from the caudal body flows directly to the liver.