Dog hereditary diseases

Description
Certain dog breeds are more susceptible to medication than others. For example, collies, Whippets, Australian Shepherds, White Swiss Shepherds and some other breeds are more sensitive to antiparasitic and anticancer drugs. This is due to a mutation in the drug susceptibility gene (MDR1). The product of the MDR1 gene, P-glycoprotein, is a component of the blood-brain barrier. If it is damaged, various substances may penetrate into the dog's brain and not be removed. In this case, some medications can be especially dangerous.

In addition to influencing the penetration of drugs into the brain, P-glycoprotein functions in the gastrointestinal tract, liver and kidneys of the dog. These organs, normally, are involved in the decay and excretion of drugs. Therefore, in dogs with MDR1 deficiency, the pharmacokinetic properties of a number of drugs change, which leads to an increase in their bioavailability (that is, the drug is absorbed more easily than it is intended, which means that the body needs significantly lower doses) and / or a decrease in the excretion of substances by the liver, kidneys and intestines. Thus, in dogs with MDR1 deficiency, plasma drug concentrations increase and an adverse drug reaction may occur.

Symptoms
When a dog with MDR1 deficiency is exposed to a number of drugs, the following symptoms may occur: excessive salivation, ataxia, blindness, tremors, depression, coma; death is possible in some cases.

Diagnostics
Dogs with MDR1 deficiency do not have any external manifestations of any disturbances, sensitivity to drugs is detected only with direct exposure to appropriate medications. Unfortunately, it can be quite difficult to prevent the consequences of using drugs, in some cases hospitalization may even be required.

Since the disease is of a genetic nature, a DNA test has been developed that is available for different breeds of dogs to identify dogs with MDR1 deficiency, as well as genetic carriers. Genetic testing is based on the application of the latest molecular genetic knowledge and technology. It allows you to distinguish with 100% certainty a healthy dog ​​from a clinically normal dog who is a carrier, and from a dog with a hypersensitivity to medication. Testing can be done at any age, for both puppies and adult dogs. Knowing the test results will help avoid side effects when using a number of drugs. When testing, a mutation in DNA is analyzed, leading to the development of MDR1 deficiency. The test detects a defective (mutant) copy of the gene and a normal copy of the gene.

Drugs with a proven negative effect on the nervous system of dogs with a mutation in the MDR1 gene - the use of these drugs is possible only under medical supervision and in lower dosages.
The list of commercial drugs could be longer! Pay attention to the active ingredient!

Drug groups are highlighted in red, categorically prohibited for use in dogs of genotype MM (two copies mutant gene).

Orange indicates groups of drugs, the use of which in dogs of the genotype MM not desirable, in dogs of genotype NM should be carried out under medical supervision.

To select a group of drugs, click on the three strips below and choose required from the dropdown list: