Taurine and carnitine in canine cardiomyopathy.
Some newer more promising therapies for dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) are taurine and carnitine. Deficiencies of these nutrients have been shown to cause DCM in dogs, and some breeds of dogs have shown dramatic improvement in myocardial function after supplementation with one or both nutrients. Although most dogs diagnosed with DCM do not have a documented taurine or carnitine deficiency, they may still be benefit from supplementation. These nutrients are safe to administer to dogs. For some owners, the high cost of carnitine is the only deterrent to giving their dogs supplements of both nutrients.
Sanderson
Sherry Lynn
SL
Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Georgia, College of Veterinary Medicine, 501 DW Brooks Drive, Athens, GA 30602, USA. sanderson@vet.uga.edu
D000824:Animal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; D000818:Animals; D002311:Cardiomyopathy, Dilated / Q000178:diet therapy / Q000662:veterinary*; D002331:Carnitine / Q000172:deficiency / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000178:diet therapy*; D004285:Dogs; D013654:Taurine / Q000172:deficiency / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014803:Vitamin B Complex / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D014803:Vitamin B Complex; D013654:Taurine; D002331:Carnitine