Description

Xylazine is recognized as a short-acting tranquilizer or sedative that provides significant pain relief. Acting as a muscle relaxant through its effects on the central nervous system, it is commonly used for short-term sedation, and treatment and management of colic.

Usage

Xylazine has several important uses, including short-term sedation, and treatment and management of colic. In combination with butorphanol and other drugs, xylazine is used as a chemical restraint for many veterinary procedures, and as a preoperative drug. A xylazine-ketamine combination is considered by some veterinarians to have advantages over other current forms of sedatives.

Dosage and Administration

Cyproheptadine
Method	Dosage (click row for calculator)	Concentration	Period	Duration
Intravenous injection	0.5 mg/lb	100 mg/ml	Treatment	NA
Intramuscular injection	1 mg/lb	100 mg/ml	Treatment	NA
Notes: Following injection of Xylazine, the animal should be allowed to rest quietly until the full effect has been reached. These dosages produce sedation which is usually maintained for 1 to 2 hours, and analgesia which lasts for 15 to 30 minutes. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Extra-label use of drugs in treating animals is allowable only by licensed veterinarians within the context of a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and does not include drug use in treating animals by the layman (except under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian). The duration of administration depends on the condition being treated, response to the medication and the development of any adverse effects. Be certain to complete the prescription unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. Even if your equine appears to feel better, the entire treatment plan should be completed to prevent relapse. This medication may be available in forms and concentrations not noted in the above table. Always check the label and literature provided with the medication about the form and concentration and DO NOT USE the calculator if the information differs. Calculator is for educational purposes only. Follow your veterinarian's instructions regarding use of this, or any medication.

Side Effects

Xylazine initially slows the heart rate and can change the heart rhythm in some horses. Moderate loss of coordination and sweating are common, and horses may drop their heads and appear very sedate.

Precautions

With any form of sedation, horses may react suddenly and unexpectedly, despite appearing to be sedated. Extreme caution should be taken by individuals working with sedated horses.

Although xylazine blocks pain, horses will respond to painful stimulation.

Xylazine should not be used in horses with heart disease or abnormal heart rhythms, and should be used with extreme caution in horses with major health problems, including shock, liver and kidney problems, or respiratory disease.

Xylazine reduces the body's ability to regulate temperature.

When sedating a horse using xylazine, it is important to wait until the drug has taken effect before beginning any procedure. With IV injection, sedation usually occurs within three to five minutes. With IM injection, sedation occurs within 10 to 15 minutes.

Xylazine is FDA-approved for use with horses, and is a prescription drug restricted to use by or on the lawful written or oral order of a licensed veterinarian.

Xylazine is a prohibited substance in most sanctioned competitions. It is important to check with the individual regulatory group.

Interactions

Xylazine has additive effects when combined with other tranquilizers and anesthetic drugs.

Overdose

Overdose causes heart arrhythmias, low blood pressure, and respiratory and central nervous system depression. Yohimbine is a drug that can be used to reverse some of the effects of xylazine.