Genetic defect makes dogs more sensitive to some veterinary medicines
Herding dogs and sighthound breeds particularly affected
A genetic defect can be the reason why some pets are particularly sensitive to certain veterinary medicines. Some dog breeds in particular are affected by mutations in the so-called MDR1 gene. The Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL) recommends that owners of such dog breeds seek veterinary advice in suspected cases.
The genetic defect mainly affects herding dog breeds such as Collies, Australian Shepherds and Shelties. MDR1 gene defects have also been detected in greyhound breeds, mixed-breed dogs and cats. In affected animals, despite treatment with the recommended dosage, there may be an increased effect of the drug administered and an increased occurrence of side effects. The symptoms depend on the active substance administered. With certain active substances for parasite treatment, for example, neurological symptoms can occur due to an accumulation of the active substance in the brain. These include coordination disorders, lethargy, tremors, seizures and pupil dilation.
"If there is a suspicion that your own animal could be affected by the MDR1 gene defect, this can be determined with the help of a genetic test," says BVL President Prof. Dr. Gaby-Fleur Böl. "This can then be taken into account if medication is required." Owners of dogs of breeds particularly affected by the MDR1 defect are therefore recommended to seek advice from a vet in advance, especially before using antiparasitics.
The so-called MDR1 transporter acts as a kind of gatekeeper in the brain and other organs of the body. It also plays a role in the excretion of drugs via the liver and kidneys. MDR stands for "multidrug resistance". Among other things, the transporter prevents certain substances from entering the brain. These substances also include some active substances from veterinary medicines, for example from the active substance groups of antiparasitics, chemotherapeutics or anesthetics. Mutations in the MDR1 gene can lead to a loss of function of the MDR1 transporter, as a result of which it is unable to perform its protective function.
Veterinary medicinal products are tested for safety and harmlessness before they are approved. In the case of corresponding active substances, the extent to which a possible MDR1 gene defect affects the tolerability of the veterinary medicinal product is also checked if necessary in order to include appropriate warnings.
Note: This article has been translated using a computer system without human intervention. LUMITOS offers these automatic translations to present a wider range of current news. Since this article has been translated with automatic translation, it is possible that it contains errors in vocabulary, syntax or grammar. The original article in German can be found here.
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