Clinical and clinicopathological changes in 6 healthy ponies following intramuscular administration of multiple doses of imidocarb dipropionate.

This research investigates the impact of repeated doses of imidocarb dipropionate, a medication for a horse infection, on the liver and kidney functions of healthy ponies. Despite slight changes in the ponies’ kidney function, it was found that the treatment had no significant harmful effects on their liver function.

Objective of the Study

• The main aim of the study was to examine the impact of multiple doses of a drug called imidocarb dipropionate and its effect on renal and hepatic functions in healthy ponies. This regimen is known to be effective in treating Babesia equi infections in horses.

Methodology

• Six healthy ponies were administered four intramuscular doses of 4 mg/kg imidocarb dipropionate every 72 hours.
• Hematological parameters and select serum indices were observed for any changes that might indicate altered liver or kidney function.
• Serum bile acids and serum gamma glutamyltransferase activity were measured to determine the impact on hepatic function, while urinary gamma glutamyltransferase to creatinine ratios (IU/g), serum creatinine, and fractional clearance of sodium, potassium, and phosphate were assessed as indicators of renal function.

Results

• The study found no noticeable adverse impact on hepatic function in the healthy ponies, as there was no significant increase in serum bile acids or serum gamma glutamyltransferase activity.
• However, there were observable changes in renal function. Specifically, urinary gamma glutamyltransferase and the urinary gamma glutamyltransferase to creatinine ratios were significantly higher by Day 5 of the trial. Additionally, two of the test ponies showed mild azotaemia, a condition characterized by abnormally high levels of nitrogen-containing compounds in the blood, suggesting changes in renal function.

Conclusion

• The research concluded that while the treatment regime could induce minor changes to renal function, it had no discernible detrimental effect on hepatic function in healthy ponies. As such, the regime can still be considered for sterilizing Babesia equi infections in horses.
• The changes in urine gamma glutamyltransferase to urine creatinine ratios also highlighted the value of this ratio for early detection of possible renal toxicity after exposure to nephrotoxic agents.