Clenbuterol hydrochloride in calves with a natural bovine respiratory syncytial virus infection
Verhoeff, J.; Hajer, R.; van den Ingh, T.S.; Dorresteijn, J.
Veterinary Record 119(5): 105-107
1986
ISSN/ISBN: 0042-4900 PMID: 3750791 Document Number: 272757
Six calves (3-9 months of age) originating from four herds with respiratory tract disease and serologial evidence of a bovine respiratory syncytial virus infection were injected intravenously with clenbuterol hydrochloride. The effect of clenbuterol on the course of disease was measured using the oxygen tension of blood taken from an indwelling cannula inserted in the caudal auricular artery, and by clinical signs. Clenbuterol did not improve clinical signs. After clenbuterol administration arterial oxygen values decreased in five out of six patients; 6-8 hours after medication the mean arterial oxygen values were higher than initial values. The moderate positive effect of clenbuterol after 6-8 hours may be caused by enhancing ciliary activity and by the secretolytic activity of clenbuterol.