Evaluating the effect of taurine supplementation on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) in dogs

The University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine is currently recruiting dogs with stable congestive heart failure (CHF) for a clinical trial evaluating the effect of taurine supplementation on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) in dogs.

Dr. Darcy Adin listening to the heart of one of our cardiology patients.
Dr. Darcy Adin listening to the heart of one of our cardiology patients.

Enrollment Status: Closed

Inclusion Criteria: Dogs that weigh more than 4.4 lbs, have stable CHF (not requiring hospitalization), have underlying mitral valve disease and are being treated only with furosemide and pimobendan can be enrolled.

Exclusion Criteria: Dogs cannot be receiving enalapril, benazepril, spironolactone or taurine (or these have been stopped at least 2 weeks before enrollment). Dogs that are hospitalized for CHF treatment can be considered for enrollment 2 weeks after hospital discharge.

Study design: A total of 2 visits are required. Dogs will have blood sampling for taurine levels and kidney values (and stored for later RAAS analysis) at the initial evaluation. Dogs will be supplemented with taurine orally (in addition to furosemide and pimobendan) and return for recheck bloodwork in 2 weeks.

Costs: The study will cover the cost of examinations, bloodwork, taurine supplementation, and an echocardiogram.

Contact: Dr. Darcy Adin, Cardiology Service 352 392 2235. If you have further questions or want to see if your dog qualifies, please complete the Cardiology Study Interest Form.

Principal Investigator: Dr. Darcy Adin

Background: The objective of this study is to determine if taurine supplementation will suppress an overactive RAAS that can contribute to disease progression in CHF

IFAS

As part of both the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences and the Academic Health Center, Veterinary Medicine is dedicated to advancing animal, human and environmental health through teaching, research, extension and patient care.

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