The sedative and analgesic effects of detomidine (Domosedan) in donkeys

Detomidine (Domosedan) was administered to four groups of donkeys, using four different dosages (5, 10, 20 and 40 micrograms/kg bwt) intravenously. The drug provided adequate sedation at dosages of 5 and 10 micrograms/kg bwt. Sedation deepened only slightly by increasing the dose. Analgesia was considered good with a dose of 20 micrograms/kg, and 40 micrograms/kg provided a deep analgesia associated with a longer duration. No significant changes had been observed in haematocrit (PCV), haemoglobin content (Hb %), total red and white cell counts and differential leucocytic counts. It was concluded that detomidine is a valuable sedative and analgesic drug to be used in donkeys without any serious implications.