Is there a place for dexmedetomidine in equine anaesthesia and analgesia? A systematic review (2005-2017).

The research article is a detailed review of the use of dexmedetomidine in equine anesthesia and attempts to determine if its usage can be justified based on publications from 2005 to 2017.

Objective and Methodology of the Review

• The primary objective of this systematic review was to compile all equine-related publications that mention the use of dexmedetomidine from the year of its first mention, 2005, until the year the study was completed, 2017.
• The main question the authors aimed to answer was if the use of dexmedetomidine, a drug not originally intended for equine use, in equine anaesthesia is clinically justified.
• The researchers conducted a comprehensive literature search using scientific databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science, along with proceedings from recent veterinary anaesthesiology conferences to gather information.

Results and Findings of the Review

• The review found that dexmedetomidine is an attractive sedative for use in horses primarily because of its pharmacokinetic profile and pharmacodynamics which permit it to be used as a continual intravenous infusion (CRI).
• Currently, dexmedetomidine is popularly used for sedation during extended standing procedures and during both partial intravenous anesthesia (PIVA) and total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) in equine practice.

Considerations and Implications

• The researchers also stressed that legal aspects of using dexmedetomidine in horses must be considered, which suggests that while it may be effective, it may not always be the first choice of anaesthetic due to regulatory considerations.
• The findings from this review can help veterinary practitioners make a more informed decision on whether or not to use dexmedetomidine as a sedative during horse surgeries and medical procedures. It may also prompt policy discussions about the legal use of this drug in veterinary medicine.