Mizzou seeks canine cancer patients for clinical trials

The University of Missouri’s Veterinary Health Center is seeking cancer-stricken canines to test a drug researchers hope will let dogs — and maybe someday humans — live longer.

The university is running clinical trials in partnership with Tensive Controls Inc. on a medication for cachexia, a wasting syndrome that causes about one-third of cancer deaths.

Cachexia occurs with advanced cancers, causes loss of appetite and can lead to multiorgan failure.

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Canine Cachexia Clinical Trial

The true prevalence of cachexia in canine patients has not been determined, due in part to euthanasia when a pet’s quality of life declines and weight loss ensues. The objectives for this study are to determine toxicity, including cardiovascular effects of the final drug candidate of MC4 peptide receptor antagonist and to determine preliminary efficacy of MC4 peptide receptor antagonist in dogs with cachexia.

Criteria:

• History of 5% or greater with loss within past three months
• Radiation and chemotherapy allowed at clinician discretion
• Washout of 2 days required for appetite stimulants.
• CBC, chemistry panel, UA, and abdominal ultrasound within 14 days of enrollment
• Corticosteriod use allowed if > 14 days prior to enrollment