Alfaxalone
Xylazine + Alfaxalone
Xylazine+Alfaxalone
Xylazine (2 mg/kg), SC/IM, + Alfaxalone (1-4 mg/kg, or to effect), Slow IV | ((Citation Needed)
Use
Multimodal Use: The protocols recommended are multimodal use.
Treatment Goals: Suitable safe sedation or surgical anaesthesia.
Treatment Endpoints: The completion of any sedation or surgical anaesthesia requirement and positive patient outcomes.
Efficacy
Efficacy Profile: Comparative risk of death or other adverse outcomes, such as inadequate depth or duration of surgical anaesthesia or sedation, remain poorly investigated.
Adverse Effects and Contraindications
Adverse Effects Profile: Post-induction apnoea, defined as the cessation of breathing for 30 seconds, is possible if alfaxalone is administered intravenously. This appears more likely with rapid administration or high doses. Anxiolytic premedication and sensitive patient handling will reduce induction tachycardia associated with catecholamine release. Preoxygenation will extend the period where patients showing post-induction issues can be safely supported. Neurological signs (convulsions, myoclonus, tremor, prolonged anaesthesia), cardiorespiratory signs (cardiac arrests, bradycardia, bradypnea) and behavioural signs (hyperactivity, vocalisation) are reported as very rare adverse effects on product datasheets.
Contraindications: Unbstable animals that have not been suitably stabilised in line with their preoperative ASA status.
Reproduction
Safety: According to a product datasheet, studies using alfaxalone in pregnant mice, rats and rabbits have demonstrated no harmful effects on the treated animals' gestation or their offspring's reproductive performance.
Alternative Products and Protocols
Products: A range of options are presented in this formulary. These include multimodal use of medetomidine, dexmedetomidine, propofol and alfaxalone. Additional options, such as buprenorphine and butorphanol, are available in the appropriate opiate monographs.
Protocols: A range of options are presented in this formulary. These include multimodal use of medetomidine, dexmedetomidine, propofol and alfaxalone. Additional options, such as buprenorphine and butorphanol, are available in the appropriate opiate monographs.