Any scientist or technician involved in pre-clinical drug studies knows that infusing animal models with test substances is no simple matter, especially if one wants to do it humanely as well as guarantee results that are not compromised by the procedure. The challenge becomes compounded if one is employing a variety of species. What works for a rat or mouse does not necessarily work for a rabbit or primate.

The Handbook of Pre-clinical Continuous Intravenous Infusion answers the needs of researchers and technicians by providing complete instructions for a wide range of infusion techniques delivered to several species. With sections devoted to rats, mice, rabbits, dogs, mini-pigs, and nonhuman primates (both large and small), this thorough text gives step-by-step instructions for the use of a variety of techniques, and equipment. It includes procedures for multidose infusion toxicity and reproductive toxicology studies, and provides guidance on the use of a variety of equipment, including tail cuffs, harnesses, and implanted buttons. It also offers detailed information on surgical preparation for primates and mini-pigs, along with advice about the use of preoperative anesthesia, post surgical analgesics, and antibiotic administration, as well as valuable input on surgical suite design.

"… I was amazed and gratified about the level of detail and the practical emphasis on technical expertise and animal well-being. This book is unique in having that as an overt aim."

From the Foreword, David B. Morton, University of Birmingham, UK

The text concludes with a chapter on general non-species-specific information that discusses common pathological findings in continuous infusion studies, the use of mini-osmatic pumps, and controllable variables such as vehicles, rates of administration and volumes. With contributions from several established experts in the handling of pre-clinical animal models, this authoritative volume removes the need for any guesswork, allowing technicians and researchers to proceed with confidence in undertaking critical studies.