Pros and cons of using alpha-2 agonists in small animal anesthesia practice

The alpha-2 agonists have been used in veterinary practice for over 30 years following the introduction of xylazine (ROMPUN, Bayer Corp., Shawnee Mission, KS) in 1962. The decision to use alpha-2 agonists in anesthesia practice should be based on factors including patient disposition, presenting complaint, type of procedure, and the veterinarian's familiarity with the drug. Controversy surrounds the issue of using anticholinergic agents concurrent with the alpha-2 agonists. Patient selection and procedure type can aid in determining when use of an anticholinergic with the alpha-2 agonist is advantageous. Antagonism of alpha-2 agonists can be readily accomplished. Commonly, alpha-2 agonists are used in combination with other agents to provide neuroleptanalgesia or sedation prior to general anesthesia.