[Effect of tranquilizer doping on the muscular activity on the sport horse. I. — Acepromazine (author’s transl)].

This study investigates the impact of acepromazine, a common tranquilizer, on certain physiological and biochemical factors of muscle activity in sporting horses, observing alterations in respiratory rhythm, serum protein, and creatine phosphokinase rates post-exercise.

Objective of the Study

The main objective of this research is to understand the effect of tranquilizer doping, using acepromazine, on the muscular activity of sport horses. The researchers specifically delve into acepromazine’s influence on numerous physiological and biochemical facets of muscle functioning, such as:

• Cardiac rhythms
• Respiratory rhythms
• Serum rates of glucose, urea, protein
• Creatine phosphokinase
• Glutamate oxalacetate transaminase
• Alkaline phosphatase

Methodology

The methodology involve administering a low dose of 0.02 mg/kg of acepromazine, a tranquilizer. Following the injection, the changes in the mentioned variables were studied both before and after standardized physical stress.

Key Findings

The study found that after the physical exertion and during recovery, the introduction of acepromazine had two significant effects:

• It caused a decrease in respiratory rhythm and serum protein rates.
• It increased the rate of creatine phosphokinase.

Implications of the Findings

From these findings, the authors suggest that acepromazine may have a depressive effect on the respiratory centers and could potentially have a toxic effect on muscle cells, causing damage. This study provides valuable insights into the potential risks associated with the use of tranquilizers like acepromazine in sport horses, particularly with respect to their muscular activity and overall health. It draws attention to the possible ramifications of doping in horseback riding sports that can be detrimental to the health and performance of the horses.