Question Details
AV Block
by
Bwkdvm
-
February 12, 2010
Replies
by
naturevet
February 12, 2010
Hi there,
I've had luck with some bradycardic syncopal cats by giving them subcutaneous magnesium injections. If you have the Manual of Natural Veterinary Medicine, I discuss the technique in there.
There are herbs that can improve contractility, including Ginseng and even Hawthorne. But they have an anti-tachycardic effect, so while well indicated from a Chinese medicine perspective, be prepared to pull back on their use if syncopal episodes increase.
I guess the only other thought I have is something Capsicum based, like "Strauss Heart drops". Capsicum has been shown to at least transiently increase heart rate after administration. Given the strong taste, you'd be smart to encapsulate it.
From a Chinese point of view, you may be dealing with a Shao Yin disorder. Shao Yin formulas include spicy Ginseng based formulas such as Li Zhong Wan (Ginseng and Aconite). Aconite has a similar effect to Capsicum on heart rate. I'd probably try to dose several times a day to start. Ginseng can help correct conduction problems, so if there is clinical improvement, another ECG would be interesting to repeat.
Hope that helps,
Steve
I've had luck with some bradycardic syncopal cats by giving them subcutaneous magnesium injections. If you have the Manual of Natural Veterinary Medicine, I discuss the technique in there.
There are herbs that can improve contractility, including Ginseng and even Hawthorne. But they have an anti-tachycardic effect, so while well indicated from a Chinese medicine perspective, be prepared to pull back on their use if syncopal episodes increase.
I guess the only other thought I have is something Capsicum based, like "Strauss Heart drops". Capsicum has been shown to at least transiently increase heart rate after administration. Given the strong taste, you'd be smart to encapsulate it.
From a Chinese point of view, you may be dealing with a Shao Yin disorder. Shao Yin formulas include spicy Ginseng based formulas such as Li Zhong Wan (Ginseng and Aconite). Aconite has a similar effect to Capsicum on heart rate. I'd probably try to dose several times a day to start. Ginseng can help correct conduction problems, so if there is clinical improvement, another ECG would be interesting to repeat.
Hope that helps,
Steve
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