Use in Rabbits: Limited studies on metoclopramide and pyridostigmine in rabbits; widely used in clinical management despite lack of extensive research.
Study Objective
Evaluate the effectiveness of metoclopramide, cisapride, capromorelin, and pyridostigmine on fecal production, food intake, urine production, and water intake in healthy New Zealand white rabbits.
Methods
Study Design
Randomized, Blinded Crossover Trial: 10-week study with 10 rabbits receiving each of 5 treatments (4 drugs + placebo) over time.
Data Collection: Assessed on food and water intake, fecal and urinary output.
Washout Period: 6 days between treatments to ensure no carryover effects.
Animals
10 male New Zealand white rabbits, considered healthy.
Housed individually with controlled diet and environment.
Data Collection
Physical Examinations: Daily assessments of health and behavior.
Measurements: Recorded food and water intake, fecal and urine output.
Results
24 Hours Pre-Treatment: Median fecal output of 70.1 g and 209 pellets.
Post-Treatment: No significant increase in fecal output or food intake across all treatments compared to placebo.
Analysis: Linear mixed models showed no significant differences across treatments (all P values > .05).
Discussion
Findings: None of the tested drugs significantly increased fecal output or food intake in rabbits.
Implication: Questions the necessity of these drugs for prokinetic use in healthy rabbits.
Limitations: Small sample size, single-dose administration. Suggests need for multidose studies.
Adverse Effects
Generally well-tolerated.
Notable incidents included behavioral fur barbering and respiratory changes (resolved with treatment).
Conclusion
Tested drugs did not significantly affect rabbit gastrointestinal motility.
Future studies should explore higher doses or alternative drugs.
Funding
Supported by various veterinary and academic institutions.