Alphaxolone

Alphaxolone (also known as Alfaxalone, Alphaxalone, or 5α-Pregnane-3α-ol-11,20-dione) is a neuroactive steroid and general anesthetic. It is used in veterinary medicine in the United Kingdom and other countries. It is similar in structure and effects to other related drugs used in anesthesia, such as propofol and etomidate.

Pharmacology

Alphaxolone acts as a positive allosteric modulator at the GABA_A receptor, enhancing the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA. This results in sedative, hypnotic, anxiolytic, and muscle relaxant effects. The drug has a rapid onset of action and a short duration of effect.

Medical uses

Alphaxolone is used in veterinary medicine for induction and maintenance of general anesthesia in dogs and cats. It is also used in combination with other drugs for anesthesia in horses.

Side effects

Possible side effects of alphaxolone include respiratory depression, hypotension, and allergic reactions. In rare cases, it can cause apnea or cardiac arrest.

History

Alphaxolone was first synthesized in the 1950s and was initially used in human medicine. However, it was withdrawn from the market due to concerns about its safety profile. It was reintroduced in the 1990s for use in veterinary medicine.

See also

• Neuroactive steroid
• General anesthetic
• GABA_A receptor

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