The induction and synchronization of parturition in sows treated with I.C.I. 79,939, an analogue of prostaglandin F2x

Abstract

SummaryI.C.I. 79,939, a potent analogue of prostaglandin F2a, was used to induce and synchronize parturition in seven gilts and three sows. A total dose of up to 750 μg injected intra-muscularly during a treatment period of about 24 h on days 109–111 of gestation induced parturition approximately 26 h after the start of treatment. The length of gestation, which was 114 ± 0·2 days in 147 normal untreated pigs, was significantly reduced to 111 ± 0·2 days (P < 0·01) in ten pigs in the same herd treated with I.C.I. 79,939. In this trial, no side-effects were detected, the average birth and 3-week weights of piglets were within the normal range, and sows usually returned to normal oestrus within a week after weaning.