PLASMA CONCENTRATION AND PHARMACODYNAMICS OF INTRAMUSCULAR ADMINISTRATION OF ALFAXALONE IN INDIAN PEAFOWL (PAVO...

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Anesthesiology
• Avian Pharmacology

Background:

• Alfaxalone is a neuroactive steroid anesthetic with a known safety profile in various species.
• Its use in avian species, particularly Indian peafowl (Pavo cristatus), requires specific pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of intramuscular alfaxalone in Indian peafowl.
• To determine safe and effective dosages for alfaxalone anesthesia in this species.

Main Methods:

• Eight female peafowl received either 10 mg/kg or 20 mg/kg of intramuscular alfaxalone.
• Blood samples were collected at various time points post-injection for pharmacokinetic analysis.
• Sedation, heart rate, and respiratory rate were monitored throughout the study.

Main Results:

• The 10 mg/kg dose resulted in smooth inductions and recoveries with minimal sedation and no adverse effects.
• The 20 mg/kg dose led to adverse effects, including seizure-like episodes and prolonged recovery times.
• High plasma concentrations of alfaxalone were detected in the higher-dose group.

Conclusions:

• Intramuscular alfaxalone at 20 mg/kg is not recommended as a sole anesthetic agent in Indian peafowl due to adverse effects.
• The 10 mg/kg dose appears to be a potentially safer option, though further investigation is warranted.
• Future studies should explore combination therapies and alfaxalone's use in other avian species.