Semester of Graduation
Summer 2024
Department
Veterinary Clinical Sciences
Document Type
Thesis
Abstract
Amphibians are exhibited in zoos, studied in the field, used as research subjects, and owned by the public, creating a need for chemical restraint techniques. Tranquilization or sedation is often sufficient for safe, effective handling, but there are no studies on the use of tranquilizers and sedatives as sole agents in amphibians.
A prospective, randomized, experimental pilot study was performed to determine effects of midazolam, trazodone, gabapentin, and acepromazine in amphibians when administered as sole agents in tiger salamanders (Ambystoma tigrinum) and African clawed frogs (Xenopus laevis). Drug routes tested included topical (TOP), immersion (IMM), subcutaneous (SC), and oral (PO). Starting doses were extrapolated from the available literature in amphibians, or when not available, from reptiles, birds, or mammals. Subsequent doses were determined based on patient responses. Responses were scored using a previously established ranking system. A washout period of seven days was performed between each drug administration. The pilot study showed that compared to mammals, higher doses of midazolam and trazadone are necessary to induce effects in A. tigrinum and X. laevis. Gabapentin had no effect while acepromazine led to inconsistent results and high risk of complications.
Based on the pilot study results, a prospective, randomized, experimental study was performed to determine the ED50 of midazolam TOP, trazodone TOP, and trazodone IMM in A. tigrinum and X. laevis. The lowest effective doses observed during the pilot study were used as the starting doses. Patient responses were monitored and scored using the same ranking system as in the pilot study. Subsequent dosing was determined based on response scores, and the principles of the Dixon Up-and-Down Method were used to achieve our goals.
Date
7-16-2024
Recommended Citation
Russell, Laken S., "Evaluation of Different Anxiolytics, Tranquilizers, Sedatives, and Routes of Administration in Amphibian Species." (2024). LSU Master's Theses. 6023.
https://repository.lsu.edu/gradschool_theses/6023
Committee Chair
Nevarez, Javier G