Lipid Preparation And Endotoxins

Binding agents that block the action of endotoxins could help protect horses from the devastating effects of endotoxemia that often follow serious bouts of colic that can lead to laminitis.

A controlled experimental trial was conducted with 15 adult horses to test the effects of a novel phospholipid emulsion reformulation on the initial response of horses to endotoxin. Control horses received a saline placebo followed by a low dose of E. coli endotoxin. Horses in the treatment group received the phospholipid emulsion followed by the endotoxin exposure.

Horses that received the phospholipid emulsion treatment prior to the endotoxin had significantly lower rectal temperatures and heart rates, improved cardiovascular parameters and more stable white blood cell counts compared with controls. Treated horses also had lower levels of inflammatory mediators in the blood stream after the endotoxin insult.

Although this study only evaluated the early changes associated with endotoxin exposure at low doses after pretreatment with the phospholipids, the results suggest that this type of medication may be useful in a clinical setting to protect horses at increased risk of developing endotoxemia.

Winchell WW, Hardy J, Levine DM, et al. Effect Of Administration Of A Phospholipids Emulsion On The Initial Response Of Horses Administered Endotoxin. American Journal of Veterinary Research 2002;63:1370- 1378.

Acupuncture, Electroacupuncture Tested

The effects of acupuncture and electroacupuncture on skin sensitivity and temperature as well as blood values and endorphin levels were compared to the effects of a sham treatment. Eight healthy horses were treated…