A steroid anaesthetic for cats

Abstract

Extract

Hans Selye, at McGill University, Montreal, was the first to demonstrate the anaesthetic activity of steroids — in 1941. While investigating the effects of overdosage of several steroid hormones in rats, he discovered that large amounts injected intraperitoneally induced anaesthesia. His observations have led to the development, some 30 years later, of a new steroid anaesthetic. The preparation was investigated under the provisional name CT 1341, and clinical trials in animals and man have shown that it possesses many useful properties. This preparation is now available under the trade name “Saffan” (Glaxo).