Re: Alfaxan use in for c-sections

Danielle — Mon, 30 May 2011 01:40:57 GMT

We use Alfaxan for most of our GAs and as I only work OOH most of these are unstable patients, we have had no problems with it thus far including in c-sections as in this respect it has the same considerations as propofol.

If you have never used alfaxan before there are a couple of differences you may note, it is rapidly metabolised and as such is not active in the system upon recovery (short half-life) so adequate analgesic premedication is essential, as recoveries are rapid. Ideally it should be injected slowly over 60 seconds to get the smoothest induction, induction apnoea is seen less than with propofol. After administration of some of the dose, the patient will go through a "sedation" phase before full GA, some animals need full dose to achieve GA but many will not, you will get the hang of judging this with experience. Apparently it maintains perfusion, cardiac output and BP better than other injectable agents though I am personally yet to see a major difference in this respect. It may be worth contacting your local drug rep for some literature? We got loads and some of the vets have found it quite useful

Re: Alfaxan use in for c-sections

Siobhan Steven — Mon, 30 May 2011 00:06:45 GMT

Alfaxalone has no detrimental effect when used for C sections, it has relatively similar properties to propofol.