Evaluation of Medetomidine- and Ketamine-Induced Immobilization in Markhors (Capra falconeri megaceros) and Its Reversal by Atipamezole

Abstract

Medetomidine- and ketamine-induced immobilization were studied clinically and by serial evaluations and determinations in 18 captive Markhors {Capra falconeri megaceros) on 21 occasions. Medetomidine and ketamine induced reliable immobilization with good muscle relax ation at mean doses of 69.0 Mg/kg and 1.60 mg/kg, respectively. In six Markhors, serial recordings and determinations were done at 10, 30, 45, and 60 min after darting. During the immobilization period, most clinical, hematological, and serum chemistry parameters remained within physiological limits, although there were statistically significant decreases in heart rates, rectal temperatures, packed cell volumes, and in serum aspartate aminotransferase, Na, Cl, and Ca levels. Significant increases in glucose levels were detected in EDTA blood and serum samples. Respiratory rates, leukocyte counts, and serum creatine kinase, urea, K, and inorganic phosphate levels remained stable. Atipamezole given by i.V., i.m., and i.v.+i.m. injections (mean doses 296.7, 323.0, and 287.7 Mg/kg, respectively) was used to reverse the medetomidine- and ketamine-induced immobilization. Atipamezole induced rapid, calm, and persistent reversal in most animals. Markhors were able to walk in a directed manner within 1-7 min.