In response to multiple peracute deaths caused by herpesvirus in several pheasant species, a study was designed to determine the absorption, distribution, and linearity of acyclovir in hybrid tragopans (Tragopan caboti × Tragopan temminckii). Acyclovir was administered to 5 healthy adult tragopans, 3 males and 2 females, in a single dose of 40, 80, or 120 mg/kg PO. Blood samples were collected at 1, 2, 6, 12, and 24 hours after administration, and concentrations of acyclovir were measured by reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a C-8 column and ultraviolet (UV) detection. Although plasma concentrations were not linear, results from this study suggest that a dosage of 120 mg/kg PO q12h in tragopans may achieve effective plasma concentrations (1.0 μg/ml) for potential treatment and prevention of herpesviral infections. However, further studies are needed to determine if this dosage is safe for repeated administration.
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1 December 2005
Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Acyclovir in Tragopans (Tragopan species)
Elizabeth Marie Rush,
Robert P. Hunter,
Mark Papich,
Bonnie L. Raphael,
Paul P. Calle,
Tracy L. Clippinger,
Robert A. Cook
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Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery
Vol. 19 • No. 4
December 2005
Vol. 19 • No. 4
December 2005