Effects of dexmedetomidine administered at acupuncture point GV20 compared to intramuscular route in dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the sedative effects produced by dexmedetomidine in dogs, administered either intramuscularly or into the Governing Vessel 20 acupuncture point. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Six dogs were sedated with 125 µg/m2 dexmedetomidine injected either intramuscularly in the gluteal muscles or subcutaneously into the acupuncture point and in random order. Sedation and analgesia were assessed blindly before and after treatments at regular intervals for 90 minutes or until the dogs fully recovered. Duration and quality of sedation were assessed with a numerical sedation rating scale and a dynamic and interactive visual analogue scale. Analgesia was also assessed with a numerical rating scale. Heart and respiratory rates and rectal temperatures were recorded. RESULTS: Sedative and analgesic scores were significantly increased when dexmedetomidine was administered at the Governing Vessel 20 acupuncture point compared with the routine intramuscular route. Duration of sedation was longer in the acupuncture site injection group compared to the intramuscular group (93 ±38 and 41 ±16 minutes). Bradycardia was significantly more pronounced in the acupuncture site group than the intramuscular group, whereas respiratory rates and rectal temperatures did not differ between administration routes. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Administration at the Governing Vessel 20 acupuncture point increased the duration and degree of sedation and analgesic effects of dexmedetomidine compared with the intramuscular route.