This retrospective study discusses results from the clinical use of deslorelin acetate (Suprelorin 4.7, Virbac [Australia] Pty Limited, Milperra NSW) - a prolonged release GnRH agonist implant - in avian species, primarily psittacine species. Includedis data from 96 birds of different species, gender, and age groups. Birds received the implant one or more times in a 2-year period to address reproductive tract disorders or conditions exacerbated by circulating concentrations of reproductive hormones.In females, these disorders were commonly the result of the overproduction of eggs that led to egg binding, cloacal or oviductal prolapse, metabolic bone disease, and hyperlipidemia. Feather loss from feather-destructive behavior in birds that were simultaneously exhibiting behaviors attributed to sexual hormones such as regurgitation and cavity seeking was also evaluated. In males, the most common problems were perseverative self-mutilation, recurring dermatitis, and aggressive behavior. Results are presented for the implant across species, gender, and age groups. No adverse clinical effects were observed in any of the birds and it appeared that Suprelorin (Virbac Aus) implants provided a good therapeutic option for an array of conditions associatedwith overproduction or ongoing gonadal activity. Like leuprolide acetate (Lupron Depot, Abbott Laboratories North Chicago, IL, USA), which has been used safely in birds for over a decade, the effect of the implant is closely related to the owners' willingness and commitment to treatment and to make environmental changes (such as limited photoperiod, cavity seeking, and stroking) to discourage reproductive behavior). A distinct advantage of the Suprelorin (Virbac) implant over the traditional use of leuprolide acetate is that the duration of the implant avoids rebound and recurrence and encourages compliance.
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