# Effects of acepromazine, xylazine and propofol on spinal reflexes in healthy dogs

## TL;DR

This study compares how three sedatives affect spinal reflexes in dogs to find the best option for neurological exams.

## Contribution

The study identifies acepromazine as the sedative with the least impact on spinal reflexes in dogs.

## Key findings

- Acepromazine increased the patellar reflex and decreased the panniculus reflex.
- Xylazine increased the cranial tibial reflex and decreased the panniculus reflex.
- Propofol suppressed several reflexes, including palpebral and gag reflexes.

## Abstract

In the neurological examination, it is crucial to identify the possible location of the lesion in order to determine the appropriate treatment process. In aggressive animals, chemical restraint may be necessary due to their non‐cooperative behaviour. However, sedatives may distort the results of examinations. Therefore, a drug should be found that has minimal impact on the examination results.

To investigate the effects of acepromazine, xylazine, and propofol on spinal reflexes in healthy dogs.

In a randomized, blinded study, ten native adult mixed‐breed dogs were participated in three groups with a 1‐week washout period between each group. Before performing each step, the spinal reflexes were evaluated. Then, in the first group, acepromazine (0.05 mg/kg, IM), in the second group, xylazine (1 mg/kg, IM), and in the third group, propofol (3 mg/kg, IV for initial bolus and 0.1 mg/kg/min for maintenance) were injected for sedation. The spinal reflexes were reevaluated at maximum sedation and at 15, 30, and 45 min thereafter.

Acepromazine increased the patellar reflex and decreased the panniculus reflex. Xylazine increased the cranial tibial reflex and decreased the panniculus reflex, while propofol decreased the withdrawal, and extensor carpi radialis reflexes, and suppressed the palpebral and gag reflexes.

The drugs used in the present study did not have a significant impact on the most important reflexes evaluated in neurological examinations. Among the drugs, acepromazine has the least effects compared to other drugs, making it a suitable choice for sedation.

This study investigated the effects of acepromazine, xylazine, and propofol on spinal reflexes in healthy dogs. Ten mixed‐breed dogs were sedated with each drug in a randomized, blinded design. Spinal reflexes were evaluated before sedation, at maximum sedation, and at 15, 30, and 45 min thereafter. Acepromazine increased patellar reflex and decreased panniculus reflex. Xylazine increased cranial tibial reflex and decreased panniculus reflex. Propofol decreased withdrawal and extensor carpi radialis reflexes, and suppressed palpebral and gag reflexes. Acepromazine showed the least specific effects on spinal reflexes, suggesting its potential suitability for sedating aggressive dogs during neurological examinations. Further research is needed to optimize protocols for safe and effective sedation in neurological examinations.