THE USE OF PSYCHOACTIVE DRUGS IN GREAT APES: SURVEY RESULTS

摘要

A survey was sent to zoologic institutions housing gorillas questioning the use of psychoactive drug use to control aggression. Survey results, as well as a brief discussion of the types of drugs used for behavior modification are presented. In recentyears, psychoactive drugs have been a rapidly expanding component of modern veterinary practice for domestic animals as well as laboratory animals. It is important to remember that the use of these drugs is extra-label and the pharmacologic, toxicologic, and behavioral effects seen may vary greatly from animal to animal. Because many of these drugs have side effects on multiple systems a complete physical examination is recommended before commencing treatment. A complete behavioral analysis should alsobe performed and a set of problem behaviors to be targeted clearly identified. Oversimplification of a complex behavioral problem may lead to errors that may be dangerous.