Safety and efficacy of unilateral topical application of rocuronium bromide in healthy scops owls (Otus scops).

Abstract

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of unilateral topical application of rocuronium bromide in scops owls. Ten healthy adult scops owls. Birds weighting between 82-111g were enrolled. Complete physical and ophthalmic examinations were performed. Each animal received a single dose of 0.15mg of rocuronium bromide (30µL) in a randomly selected eye. Static pupillometric evaluations were performed before and after drug instillation at 0, 30, 60, 90, and 120minutes, in a room with fixed light intensity. Physical and ophthalmic examinations were carried out to evaluate possible adverse effects. Median pupil (95% CI) size at t0 was 7.10mm (5.51-7.41) for placebo eyes and 7.22mm (6.93-7.48) for treated eyes, showing no statistical differences (P>.05). When compared to the placebo eye, significant mydriasis was achieved at t30 [8.18mm (7.22-9.00)] (P=.014) and lasting until t90 [7.35mm (6.20-9.52)] (P=.004). Maximal mydriasis was obtained at t60 [8.63mm (7.72-9.81)] (P=.001). During this period, the treated eye no longer responded to direct light stimulation. Complete mydriasis was observed in 5/10 birds (mean weight 97.4g). Pupil size at t90 and t120 did not differ from baseline (P>.05) in treated eyes. No adverse effects were seen during the study period. Single-dose topical rocuronium bromide (0.15mg) is a safe and effective medium duration mydriatic agent in scops owls. Further studies are needed to evaluate bilateral topical application and standardize the mydriatic protocol.