Systemic Effects and Clinical Application of Medetomidine in Animals: A Review

Abstract

Medetomidine is most potent α-2 adrenergic selective agonist, produces consistent sedation, anxiolysis and muscle relaxation, which makes it a popular sedative agent in veterinary anaesthesia. It produces dose dependent sedation and analgesia in animals. In veterinary practice it is used for premedication and as an adjunct to general anaesthesia in several species. Similar to other alpha-2 agonists it exerts its effect through the action on alpha-2 adrenergic receptors. The sedative and anxiolytic effects of α-2 agonists are mediated by agonism of supraspinal autoreceptors situated in the pons, whereas analgesic effects are mediated by agonism of heteroreceptors located in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord. Medetomidine through stimulation of central and peripheral adrenoreceptors, significantly affect cardiovascular function. Medetomidine reduces both rate and depth of respiration. Medetomidine generally used along with butorphanol for premedication prior to induction of general anaesthesia. Medetomidine administration reduces both injectable and inhalant anesthetic requirements in several species.