Sedative Effects of the Combination of Detomidine and Midazolam In Horses

Background: The combination of detomidine and midazolam may provide safer sedation with muscle-relaxant effects, which is particularly necessary during standing procedures. Aim: Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the sedative and muscle-relaxant effects of the detomidine-midazolam combination in horses through a pharmacodynamic study. Methods: Five horses were used and subjected to four experimental protocols: 15 µg/kg of detomidine (D15); a combination of detomidine (15 µg/kg) with 25 µg/kg (DM25), 50 µg/kg (DM50), or 75 µg/kg (DM75) of midazolam, administered intravenously. Sedative and muscle-relaxant effects, as well as physiological parameters, were evaluated and statistically analyzed. Results: All protocols resulted in a decrease in head height, although no significant difference was observed among them. Acoustic stimulus response and tongue tone relaxation showed significant effects in the global analysis. Conclusion: This study contributes to the understanding and application of this combination in equine sedation protocols.