Investigation of cardiorespiratory effects of the selective 5-HT4 agonist BIMU-8 in etorphine-immobilised goats (Capra aegagrus hircus) in a randomized, blinded and controlled trial

Abstract

Background: Opioid-induced respiratory compromise remains a significant challenge in etorphine-immobilised wildlife. Serotonergic agonists offer a potential avenue for preventing or treating opioid-induced respiratory compromise. We therefore aimed to determine whether the selective 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 4 (5-HT4) agonist, BIMU-8, reverses opioid-induced respiratory compromise in etorphine-immobilised goats.

Methods: Seven healthy adult goats were immobilised with etorphine, then treated with BIMU-8 or sterile water 5 minutes later in a randomised, prospective cross-over study. Cardiorespiratory variables were measured at 1-minute intervals from 4 minutes before etorphine to 15 minutes after its administration. Arterial blood gas analyses were also performed before and after etorphine administration and the respective treatments.

Results: Intravenous injection of BIMU-8 attenuated etorphine-induced respiratory compromise, as indicated by improvements, compared to baseline and between treatments, in respiratory rate (fR), peripheral arterial blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), partial pressure of arterial oxygen (PaO2) and the alveolar-arterial oxygen partial pressure gradient (P(A-a)O2). BIMU-8 caused an increase in heart rate and a temporary decrease in arterial blood pressure. Mild movements and slight muscle spasm occurred but BIMU-8 did not reverse immobilisation.

Conclusion: Our results indicate that BIMU-8 may be a potential drug candidate for the treatment, or prevention, of etorphine-induced respiratory compromise in immobilised ungulates.