What substance is commonly used intravenously for sedation in horses?

Detomidine is commonly used intravenously for sedation in horses due to its effectiveness and safety profile. It is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, which means it works by stimulating specific receptors in the brain, leading to sedation, analgesia, and muscle relaxation. This makes it particularly useful for procedures that require a calm and manageable animal without the need for a full anesthetic protocol.

The choice of detomidine for horses stems from its reliability in producing a deep, controllable sedation that allows veterinarians and technicians to perform various medical procedures safely. Its duration of action is generally longer than some other sedatives, which is beneficial in equine practice.

While the other substances mentioned—propofol, isoflurane, and dexmedetomidine—are effective in various situations, they are not as commonly used for intravenous sedation in horses. Propofol is mainly used for short procedures in other species and is not ideal for horses due to the risk of respiratory depression and its short duration of action. Isoflurane is an inhalant anesthetic, typically utilized during surgery rather than for sedation. Dexmedetomidine is another alpha-2 agonist but is used more often in smaller animals rather than in horses.