Reserpine

Catecholamine-depleting tranquilizer for stereotypic and anxious behaviors in horses; long-acting sedative for shipping and stall rest. Catecholamine-depleting antihypertensive/tranquilizer (reserpine). Mechanism: irreversibly inhibits vesicular monoamine transporter (VMAT2) in CNS and peripheral adrenergic neurons → prevents repackaging of norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin into storage vesicles → depletion of catecholamine stores → CNS sedation and behavioral suppression. Long duration (weeks). Cannot be reversed. Key information Monoamine depleting antihypertensive/tranquilizer. Long-acting — prolonged sedation. Competition withdrawal times critical. Do not use in depressed animals. Store at room temperature.

Injectable (horses): administer IM or SQ as directed. Onset: 4–6 hrs; duration: 1–3 weeks (irreversible). Monitor behavioral response. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.

CNS: sedation, depression, lethargy (prolonged — irreversible catecholamine depletion). Cardiovascular: bradycardia, hypotension. GI: increased motility, diarrhea. Nasal congestion. Diarrhea. Cannot be reversed — duration of effects may be weeks (irreversible VMAT2 inhibition).

For animals Irreversible action (VMAT2 inhibition) — effects last weeks; no reversal agent. Horses: monitor for behavioral changes and GI signs. Avoid in pregnant animals. Drug interaction: additive CNS depression with other sedatives. Not approved for use in food-producing animals. For people handling this medication Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Catecholamine depleter — Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact. Avoid skin contact. May cause nasal congestion and sedation with accidental ingestion. Keep out of reach of children.

Contact your veterinarian. Reserpine overdose causes prolonged, deep sedation and severe depression. Supportive care required.