Vaulin

Vaulin is a brand name for the veterinary pharmaceutical product containing the active ingredient alfaxalone. Alfaxalone is an anesthetic drug belonging to the steroid anesthetic class, also known as neuroactive steroid anesthetics. It is primarily used in veterinary medicine for induction and maintenance of general anesthesia in various animal species, including dogs, cats, horses, and cattle.

The mechanism of action for alfaxalone involves potentiation of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmission at the GABA-A receptor. GABA is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. By enhancing GABA's effects, alfaxalone causes central nervous system depression, leading to sedation, hypnosis, and anesthesia. It is known for producing a smooth induction and recovery from anesthesia with minimal respiratory depression compared to some other anesthetic agents.

Vaulin is typically administered intravenously, either as a bolus injection for induction or as a continuous infusion for maintenance of anesthesia. Its pharmacokinetic profile allows for relatively rapid onset and offset of anesthetic effects. Commonly observed side effects include transient apnea immediately following administration, hypotension, and muscle tremors. It is important for veterinary professionals to administer Vaulin under careful monitoring of the patient's vital signs. The drug is contraindicated in animals with known hypersensitivity to alfaxalone or other steroid anesthetics.