Integrating NSAIDs with Regenerative Medicine in Equine Care
Equine health, especially within the realm of sports medicine, has progressed significantly with the utilization of regenerative therapies. One critical aspect of these treatments involves the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) alongside regenerative medicine devices. Recent research by the University of Pennsylvania’s New Bolton Center, in collaboration with Zoetis Inc., has illuminated the compatibility and efficacy of combining NSAIDs with these advanced therapeutic devices.
Regenerative Medicine and Equine Conditions
Regenerative medicine devices such as Pro-Stride® Autologous Protein Solution (APS) and Restigen® Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) play a pivotal role in managing equine osteoarthritis (OA), tendonitis, and ligament injuries. These treatments leverage the body’s natural healing capabilities by delivering cells, cytokines, and growth factors directly to the injured tissues. However, the concurrent use of NSAIDs, common in equine care for pain and inflammation management, has raised concerns about potential interactions that could affect the therapeutic efficacy of these devices.
Comprehensive Studies on NSAIDS and Regenerative Medicine
To address these concerns, two meticulous studies were undertaken:
Short-term NSAID Study
The short-term study examined the impact of a single dose of NSAIDs—ketoprofen, flunixin meglumine, phenylbutazone, or firocoxib—on the concentrations of cytokines and growth factors in APS and PRP. Blood samples were collected six hours after NSAID administration.
Long-term NSAID Study
The long-term study assessed the effects of prolonged administration (six days) of phenylbutazone or firocoxib on the same biological markers. Blood samples were collected 24 hours after the last NSAID dose.
Key Findings for Equine Practitioners
The results across both studies were consistent and reassuring for practitioners. The administration of NSAIDs, whether short-term or long-term, did not significantly alter the concentrations of cytokines or growth factors in the APS and PRP preparations. This means that the use of NSAIDs does not compromise the therapeutic efficacy of these regenerative devices when blood is collected at the specified times post-NSAID administration.
Implications for Equine Care
These findings are significant for equine practitioners and owners. They alleviate concerns about discontinuing NSAIDs before collecting blood for regenerative treatments, ensuring that horses can continue to receive necessary pain and inflammation management without compromising the effectiveness of regenerative therapies. Dr. Nathan Voris, Director of Equine Technical Services at Zoetis, emphasized that this research provides a science-backed answer to a common question, enhancing confidence in the use of these products.
Methodology and Collaborative Efforts
The studies were conducted using six university-owned research horses, highlighting the importance of rigorous research and academic-industry collaboration. This effort between Zoetis Inc. and the University of Pennsylvania’s New Bolton Center underscores their commitment to advancing equine healthcare.
Future Research Directions
While these studies provide valuable insights into the short-term and long-term effects of NSAIDs on regenerative devices, several avenues for further research remain:
- Detailed Mechanisms of NSAID Interaction: Investigate biochemical interactions between NSAIDs and the components of regenerative devices.
- Long-term Efficacy of Regenerative Medicine: Conduct longitudinal studies on the effectiveness of regenerative therapies in managing equine OA and other conditions.
- Comparative Studies on NSAIDs: Explore how different NSAIDs affect regenerative therapies.
- Advancements in PRP and APS: Continuously innovate the preparation and standardization of PRP and APS to enhance their therapeutic potential.
These further explorations could broaden our understanding and application of regenerative medicine in equine care.
Conclusion
The research from the University of Pennsylvania’s New Bolton Center offers significant insights into the compatibility of NSAIDs with regenerative medicine devices. By demonstrating that NSAIDs do not significantly impact the concentrations of cytokines and growth factors in APS and PRP, these findings support the continued use of these treatments in conjunction with NSAIDs, enhancing the overall care and management of equine musculoskeletal conditions.
For more information, visit zoetisequine.com and zoetis.com.
References
- Brown KA, Gregorio E, Barot D, et al. Single-dose nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in horses have no impact on concentrations of cytokines or growth factors in autologous protein solution and platelet-rich plasma. Am J Vet Res. 2024. https://doi.org/10.2460/ajvr.23.11.0258
- Brown KA, Gregorio E, Barot D, et al. The effect of prolonged administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories on concentrations of cytokines and growth factors in autologous protein solution and platelet-rich plasma. Proceedings, 2023 ACVS Surgery Summit. Veterinary Surgery. 52 (7). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38889765/