Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Reserpine toxicosis in a horse.
- Journal:
- Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
- Year:
- 1985
- Authors:
- Lloyd, K C et al.
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
A horse received a single injection of a drug called reserpine, which caused toxic effects that lasted for several days. The horse showed unusual behavior similar to colic, became very depressed, had a slow heart rate, and experienced drooping of the eyelids and penis. Although the horse did not have diarrhea, this might have been because it also received another medication called xylazine. The horse was treated with intravenous fluids and careful nursing, and it started to improve about three days after the injection. The tests confirmed the presence of reserpine in its system, but the recommended antidote was not used in this case.
Abstract
A single injection of reserpine in an adult horse was believed to induce toxicosis for several days. Clinical signs included erratic, colic-like behavior followed by depression, bradycardia, miosis, ptosis, and paraphimosis. Diarrhea was not observed and may have been due to the effect of xylazine given with the reserpine. The horse was supported with IV fluids and intensive nursing care. Gradual improvement was noted 72 hours after the horse received the drug. Qualitative analysis via high-performance liquid chromatography was positive for reserpine. Methamphetamine is the recommended antidote but was not used in this case.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3997654/