Diazepam

Diazepam is a benzodiazepine which used for sedation, anxiety relieve and anticonvulsant effect in animals.

Group

Diazepam is grouped in Benzodiazepines and Sedatives.

Mechanism of Action

Diazepam binds to gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the Central Nervous System. This binding leads to changes in some functions of the CNS like hypnosis, memory, anxiety, epilepsy, etc.

Dose Rates

• Dogs: 0.25 to 0.5 mg/kg q12-24hrs PO IM SC IV
• Cats: 0.25 to 0.5 mg/kg q12-24hrs PO IM SC IV
• Sheep: 0.05 mg/kg q12-24hrs Slow IV
• Goats: 0.05 mg/kg q12-24hrs Slow IV
• Cattle: 0.05 mg/kg q12-24hrs Slow IV
• Horse: 0.25 to 0.5 mg/kg q12-24hrs Slow IV
• Pig: 0.25 to 0.5 mg/kg q12-24hrs IM IV
• Birds: 0.1 to 1 mg/kg q12-24hrs IM IV

Indications

• As Preanaesthetic or Anaesthetic adjunct
• Sedative
• Mild skeletal muscle relaxant
• Seizures
• Convulsions
• Epilepsy
• Anxiety
• Behavioural disorders (feather plucking in birds)
• Short term stimulation of appetite in cats
• Diazepam nasal spray for Status epilepticus
• Strychnine (Present in seeds of Strychnos nux vomica) poisoning
• Single dose therapy in eclampsia

Contraindications

• Patient with hepatic disorders
• Pregnant animal

Interactions

• Diazepam is not soluble in aqueous solutions

Adverse effects

• Ataxia
• Increased appetite
• Paradoxical excitement in dogs
• Sedation
• Prolonged use leads to dependence

Intramuscular and subcutaneous routes should not be of interest, as these are painful for diazepam administration. The intravenous route is better to use.

Toxicity

Long term use of Diazepam cause liver toxicity in animals.

Cows may become recumbent after 0.5 mg/kg body weight dose of Diazepam.

Flumazenil (it is a Benzodiazepine antagonist) is a specific antidote for Benzodiazepine Toxicity.

Preparations

Injectables: 5mg/mL

Tablets: 2mg, 5mg, 10mg

Nasal Sprays: 5mg, 10mg, 15mg preparations availabe

More about Diazepam for animals