Analgesic and sedative effects of caudal epidural tramadol in dromedary camels

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the analgesic efficacy of caudal epidural administration of tramadol in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius). A total of 10 dromedary camels of both sexes were selected and randomly assigned to one of two groups to receive epidurally either 1 mg/kg or 2 mg/kg of tramadol hydrochloride. The injections were made into the epidural space at first intercoccygeal junction. Using a pinprick method, analgesia was tested. Duration and onset of complete perineal analgesia were determined. Ataxia and sedation were also assessed and recorded. Clinical parameters including heart rate, respiratory rate and rectal temperature were measured. The lower dose (1 mg/kg) of tramadol induced analgesia only in the tail but the higher dose produced complete antinociception in the tail, anus and perineum. Analgesia of the hind limbs was not achieved after either doses of tramadol. The mean times to onset and duration of complete analgesia in camels receiving epidural tramadol at a dose of 2 mg/kg were 22±2.55 min and 65±8.66 min, respectively. Various degrees of ataxia occurred in all camels. Mild to deep sedation was observed following both doses. Mean heart rate, respiratory rate, and rectal temperature tended to increase for the first 15 or 30 min after injection. Based on the results of this study, analgesic effects of caudal epidural tramadol were dose dependent. Epidural tramadol at a dose of 2 mg/kg would provide suitable postoperative analgesia for various manipulations in the tail, anus and perineum in standing dromedary camels.