Evaluation of the use of intranasal atipamezole to reverse the sedative effects of xylazine in dogs

Objective

To assess the ability of intranasal atipamezole to reverse sedative effects of xylazine in dogs.

Design

Prospective proof-of-concept study.

Setting

University research laboratory.

Animal

Six healthy, staff-owned dogs.

Interventions

Dogs were sedated with 1.1 mg/kg of xylazine intravenously. The sedation score of each dog was recorded every 5 minutes until they achieved a sedation score of >13/21 for 3 readings. Once achieved, 0.3 mg/kg of atipamezole was administered intranasally using a mucosal atomization device. Sedation scores continued to be recorded every 5 minutes until successful reversal was achieved (<4/21).

Measurements and Main Results

Average times to standing and normal wakefulness after administration of intranasal atipamezole were 6 minutes, 30 seconds and 7 minutes, 20 seconds, respectively.

Conclusions

Intranasal atipamezole successfully reversed the sedation effects of xylazine. The findings of this study provide justification for future controlled prospective studies into the potential use of intranasal atipamezole in a variety of settings including exposure to xylazine in operational canines as well as bioavailability studies for optimal dosing.