Effects of ketamine, propofol, or thiopental administration on intraocular pressure and qualities of induction of and recovery from anesthesia in horses

Abstract

These findings support the use of thiopental or propofol in preference to ketamine for horses in which increases in IOP should be minimized.

Effect of intravenous administration of romifidine on intraocular pressure in clinically normal horses

“…In that study, however, romifidine was given IV as a pre‐anesthetic medication, and only one IOP measurement was obtained after 5 min of romifidine administration with all other measurements influenced by other drugs and anesthesia. In a recent study in horses conducted using an anesthetic combination of xylazine and ketamine, a significant increase in IOP was noted …”

“…In a recent study in horses conducted using an anesthetic combination of xylazine and ketamine, a significant increase in IOP was noted. 10 The precise mode of action of alpha-2 adrenoceptor agonist drugs in decreasing IOP in horses is unclear. Three mechanisms have been suggested to explain the alpha-2 adrenergic effects on IOP via their effects on aqueous humor production.…”

“…One study, for example, reported effects of ketamine hydrochloride, propofol, or compounded thiopental sodium administration on IOP and qualities of induction of and recovery from anesthesia in horses. In the conclusion, the authors stated that ketamine caused a significant increase in IOP compared with baseline, propofol, and thiopental …”

“…In the conclusion, the authors stated that ketamine caused a significant increase in IOP compared with baseline, propofol, and thiopental. 10 Romifidine is a selective alpha-2 adrenoceptor agonist drug that is commonly administered intravenously or intrathecally to bring about sedation and analgesia in horses, and it has been shown to have systemic and analgesic effects similar to other alpha-2 agonists. 11 Romifidine's actions have demonstrated some differences from the other alpha-2 agonists in veterinary use.…”

Comparison of alfaxalone, ketamine and thiopental for anaesthetic induction and recovery in Thoroughbred horses premedicated with medetomidine and midazolam

“…In contrast, 2 of the 6 horses administered alfaxalone and one of the 6 horses given thiopental showed slight muscular rigidity or limb movement during the transition to lateral recumbency, although all horses seemed to be well sedated before induction. Previous studies suggest that including guaifenesin may improve induction quality .…”