Alfaxalone

Alfaxalone (also known as Alphaxalone) is a neuroactive steroid and general anesthetic. It is used in veterinary medicine for the induction and maintenance of general anesthesia in dogs and cats.

Pharmacology

Alfaxalone acts as a positive allosteric modulator at the GABA_A receptor, enhancing the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA and causing sedation, hypnosis, and anesthesia. It has similar effects to other general anesthetics such as propofol and barbiturates.

Medical uses

Alfaxalone is used in veterinary medicine for the induction and maintenance of general anesthesia in dogs and cats. It is administered intravenously and has a rapid onset of action. The duration of anesthesia is relatively short, typically lasting around 30 minutes.

Side effects

Possible side effects of alfaxalone include respiratory depression, hypotension, and bradycardia. These effects are generally mild and transient. Other potential side effects include muscle twitching, vomiting, and hypersensitivity reactions.

History

Alfaxalone was first synthesized in the 1970s and was initially marketed as a mixture with alphadolone under the brand name Saffan. However, this formulation was withdrawn from the market due to issues with histamine release and hypersensitivity reactions. A new formulation of alfaxalone, marketed under the brand name Alfaxan, was introduced in the 2000s.

See also

• Neuroactive steroid
• General anesthetic
• GABA_A receptor
• Propofol
• Barbiturates

External links

• Alfaxan CD RTU - Drugs.com

Alfaxalone Resources
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