Large animal medicine clinician funded to study use of furosemide in horses

Dr. Sally DeNotta, a clinical assistant professor of equine medicine and equine extension specialist at the UF College of Veterinary Medicine, will lead one of three scientific studies funded by the U.S. Horseracing Integrity and Safety Committee to investigate the use of the commonly used medication furosemide, also known as “Lasix,” in horses. These studies aim to identify how Lasix affects racehorse health and performance, and will be used to guide regulations that protect the safety and health of equine athletes in the United States.

DeNotta’s specific study will use 12 racehorses all trained to run on a high-speed equine treadmill at the UF veterinary college, and will look at how repeated doses of Lasix affect electrolyte balance and excretion in exercising adult Thoroughbred racehorses. The study will also examine the drug’s effect on bone density and strength.

Together, these studies will help address the growing concern for the health and welfare of Thoroughbred race horses by delivering science-based information by which to guide the use of commonly administered medications.