Effects of inhaled beclomethasone dipropionate on respiratory function in horses with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

This research paper studied the impact of a drug called beclomethasone dipropionate on horses suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Results revealed that the medication improved respiratory functions in the horses during the treatment period.

Methodology

• Six mature mares diagnosed with COPD were selected for this study.
• The diagnosis was based on clinical signs, pulmonary function testing and cytological examination of bronchoalveolar lavage (a technique to evaluate lung health).
• The horses were given beclomethasone dipropionate (3750 micrograms) twice every day for two weeks using a metered-dose inhaler with a mask.
• Pulmonary function tests and arterial blood gas analyses were carried out weekly, from the start of beclomethasone administration through four weeks post-treatment.
• Additionally, upper airway endoscopy (a procedure to look at the horses’ airways) and nasopharyngeal fungal cultures were undertaken before and after the treatment.

Key Findings

• Prior to the treatment, it was observed that transpulmonary pressure (deltaPL) was elevated in all horses. This level decreased significantly in five horses after the administration of beclomethasone.
• In four of these horses, deltaPL fell within the normal range. However, two weeks after the treatment concluded, the deltaPL returned to or exceeded baseline values for all subjects.
• Total pulmonary resistance and elastance – measures of lung stiffness and difficulty in expansion – also reduced significantly during treatment but rose back to or above baseline after stopping beclomethasone administration.
• It was observed that horses with noticeable laboured breathing experienced an increase in the amount of oxygen in their arterial blood (PaO2) with the treatment.
• One horse showed reluctance in inhaling beclomethasone after one week, and only temporary improvement in its respiratory function was noticed in this case.
• No serious side effects were observed, except for one horse that developed a mild lower airway infection 24 hours into the treatment.
• Fungal cultures from the throat of horses were negative both before and after the treatment.

Conclusion

• Based on the study results, it was concluded that inhaled beclomethasone dipropionate significantly improved respiratory function in horses with COPD during the period of its administration.