Dosage and routes of administration of prostaglandin: Practical implications for the reproduction of cows, mares and pigs

Abstract

Prostaglandin F2α and its synthetic analogues, because of their luteolytic properties, have found wide application in the reproduction of domestic animals, including cattle, swine and horses. They are used to induce and synchronize heat, ovulation and parturition, as well as to improve the results of insemination and early-stage pregnancy termination. The ongoing discussions regarding animal welfare include the question of the lowest effective dose of hormones in individual species and how it could be reduced by selecting the optimal route of hormone administration. Intramuscular injection is the recommended method of administering prostaglandins to cows, pigs and mares. Due to the different sensitivities of these species to prostaglandins, the recommended therapeutic dose varies significantly from one species to another. The luteolytic effect also depends on the route of administration. Studies on alternative routes of injection report good therapeutic effects after administration of the hormone subcutaneously (SC), into intravaginal submucosa (IVSM), at the BAI-HUI acupuncture point or at the ischiorectal fossa (IRF). The injection site, the dose and the type of prostaglandin used may intensify negative effects, such as an increase in the heart or breathing rate and increased sweating.