Diazepam and succinylcholine chloride for restraint of the American alligator.

Diazepam followed by succinylcholine chloride was administered intramuscularly to 26 healthy mature female alligators on 2 occasions. The mean diazepam dosage was 0.37 mg/kg (range, 0.22 mg/kg to 0.62 mg/kg) and the mean succinylcholine chloride dosage was 0.24 mg/kg (range, 0.14 mg/kg to 0.37 mg/kg). This drug combination reduced stress and allowed adequate immobilization for restraint and handling. The reduced drug volume, low dosage of succinylcholine chloride required, short induction period, maintenance of respiration, and adequate degree of immobilization make this drug combination a good alternative to the use of muscle relaxants alone in chemical restraint of alligators.