Obstructive airway disease in horses is a common condition characterized by coughing, decreased exercise intolerance, an elevated respiratory rate, loss of body condition as well as secondary respiratory infections. The condition is frequently exacerbated during periods of heat and high humidity, which can make breathing more difficult. The high temperatures and humidity levels across the United States this summer are making respiratory problems more common.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary disease is characterized by airflow limitation and pathologically, by inflammation of the airways. Inflammation has been shown in recent research to play a major role in the progressive worsening of lung function and associated symptoms. In many cases, the underlying culprit is an allergic response, commonly involving eosinophils and mast cells, to an allergen in the environment, which then triggers the inflammatory response resulting in constricted airways and mucous accumulation. Over time, the inflammatory process can lead to destruction of lung tissue which leads to further progression of the disease. Targeting lung and airway inflammation can be a key factor in controlling clinical signs and progression of the disease in horses (1).
Current treatment modalities used in horses include inhaled, oral and injectable corticosteroids as well as bronchodilators and antihistamines. These medications have their place in therapy, but all too often fail to adequately control the disease and can induce side effects with long term use.
Research has shown that various natural therapies may be beneficial in the control of the clinical progression of COPD. Inflammation is a complex cascade of events involving the release of cytokines and activation of inflammatory pathways as well as induction of oxidative stress. Human studies have shown that the daily intake of high levels of vitamin C and E can alter the course of the disease and improve airflow by neutralizing free radicals. Pterostilbene, an active ingredient found in blueberries and wine, has been shown to be beneficial in obstructive pulmonary disease by acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory by inhibiting transcription factors NF-κB and AP-1 pathways.
Curcumin, the active ingredient in Turmeric, has also been found to be very beneficial in reducing clinical signs of COPD, by reducing inflammation, acting as a primary antioxidant and inhibiting cellular migration. Curcumin has been shown to down regulate transcription factor NF-κB, inhibit prostaglandin formation, suppress Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) and inhibit neutrophil accumulation by inhibiting IL-8 formation by monocytes (1).
Nouvelle Veterinary, Inc. has researched and formulated products for use in combating inflammation affecting the horse by using proven herbs such as Curcumin, Boswellia and Blueberry extracts. Our Cur-OST line of equine products are research supported, veterinary formulated and clinically proven to be effective in reducing inflammation associated with many syndromes including COPD, arthritis and other health conditions.
Our formulas utilize BCM-95, a proven curcumin extract containing volatile oils to help enhance gastrointestinal absorption. Our Cur-OST EQ Green and EQ PLUS formulas contain the highest level of curcumin on the market to help reduce inflammation and return function. Our Cur-OST EQ IR product is the only product on the market containing potent blueberry, bilberry and Noni-fruit extracts to help reduce inflammation, combat oxidative stress and improve sugar metabolism in insulin resistant horses.
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For more information, visit our website at www.nouvelleresearch.com or call 1-800-476-4702. Direct inquiries to Dr. Schell, head of research and development, can be made by emailing tschelldvm@gmail.com.
1. Amir Sharafkhaneh, Suryakanta Velamuri, Vladimir Badmaev, Charlie Lan and Nicola Hanania, The potential role of natural agents in treatment of airway inflammation, Ther Adv Respir Dis 2007;1:105