Seminar: "Recent Studies of E-4021, a Type-5 Phosphodiesterase Inhibitor, as an Alternative to Lasix for the Treatment of Exercise-Induced Pulmonary Hemorrhage in Race Fit Horses" - Kenneth H. McKeever, Ph.D.

Seminar:

"Recent Studies of E-4021, a Type-5 Phosphodiesterase Inhibitor, as an Alternative to Lasix for the Treatment of Exercise-Induced Pulmonary Hemorrhage in Race Fit Horses"

Kenneth H. McKeever, Ph.D.
Professor
Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers

Our research has made the Rutgers Equine Exercise Physiology Laboratory the “go to” lab to answer key questions about drugs to treat exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhaged (EIPH) in horses. EIPH affects up to 90% of racing horses and it is caused by large increases in pulmonary artery pressure. Lasix, a diuretic, is the only drug approved to treat EIPH. Lasix is given to more than 90% of horses prior to a race. Lasix does not reduce the incidence of EIPH, has limited effect on the severity of EIPH, and it has harmful side effects. The seminar will present an overview of EIPH and results from our more recent research that examined E-4021, a lung specific type-5 phosphodiesterase inhibitor that could potentially replace Lasix. E-4021 appears to reduce pulmonary artery pressure to clinically significant levels, it does not enhance markers of performance, and it can be given a day before competition. If clinical trials show efficacy, then the drug will revolutionize the care and treatment of racehorses and will have a major impact on the horse industry.

Email stacey.pontoriero@rutgers.edu for Zoom link.