The Atlantic Veterinary College (AVC) at the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) has announced a new clinical trial to explore the use of propranolol in treating cardiac tumors in dogs. This initiative addresses a critical gap in veterinary medicine, where treatment options for this condition are limited, often leading to end-of-life discussions.
The trial, led by Drs. Lynne O’Sullivan, Abigail Martin, and Etienne Côté, will investigate whether propranolol, a beta-blocker commonly used to treat heart problems and anxiety in humans and hemangiomas in infants, can effectively reduce the size of cardiac tumors in canines and improve their overall quality of life. Cardiac tumors are relatively rare in dogs, typically affecting larger breeds, and are often diagnosed late, after the dog has been admitted to an emergency hospital with fluid around the heart.
Rationale for Propranolol Use
Dr. Martin noted the success of propranolol in treating hemangiomas in infants, stating, "Propranolol has shown great success in treating hemangiomas in infants. We want to see if it can have a similar effect on dogs." The medication works by slowing down the heart rate, making it easier for the heart to pump blood throughout the body. Current treatments primarily focus on alleviating fluid around the heart, offering only short-term relief.
Trial Design and Eligibility
Eligible dogs must be referred to AVC by their veterinarian and meet specific inclusion criteria. Enrolled dogs will receive propranolol orally for one month and will be closely monitored by AVC specialists. The study is supported by the Arthur L. Irving Foundation, the ACVIM Cardiology Pacemaker Fund Research Grant, and AVC’s Companion Animal Fund. The trial is expected to continue for up to two years.
Clinical Significance
Dr. Côté emphasized the potential impact of the trial: "Right now, we can help the patient in the short term by relieving the fluid around the heart, so it helps the dog feel better. However, the underlying issue is the tumor, and surgery is often not viable. We want to know if this medication will help shrink the tumor and enhance the quality of life for these animals."
This research represents a significant step forward in veterinary cardiology, offering hope for improved treatment options for dogs suffering from cardiac tumors.
