Rapamycin for the Treatment of Cancer in Dogs

In preliminary studies, we have demonstrated that this novel formulation is well-tolerated in dogs, with side effects being rare. The data from this study will be used to define an ideal dose of the drug to use in future cancer efficacy clinical studies.

DESCRIPTION

Rapamycin is an immunosuppressive drug that also has significant anti-cancer properties. Recent genomic analyses of cancers in dogs now provide a scientific basis for the use of this drug in canine chemotherapy protocols. Rapamycin has been developed and is approved for use in several human cancers.

Previous studies of rapamycin have shown that it has poor intestinal absorption in dogs when given orally, resulting in unpredictable blood levels and effect. A novel formulation of rapamycin has recently been developed to improve the oral absorption of the drug. In preliminary studies, we have demonstrated that this novel formulation is well-tolerated in dogs, with side effects being rare.

This study now seeks to better understand the intestinal absorption potential of this novel formulation of rapamycin (i.e. speed of absorption, maximum concentration in the blood, speed of excretion) when being administered to dogs with naturally occurring cancer. The data from this study will be used to define an ideal dose of the drug to use in future cancer efficacy clinical trials.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Any dog that has recently had a diagnosis of malignancy
Dogs that weigh more than 5kg and less than 45kg

PARTICIPATING HOSPITALS

Peak Veterinary Referral Center, Williston, VT
VSH – North County, San Marcos, CA
VSH – Sorrento Valley, San Diego, CA
WVRC – Waukesha, WI

Benefits of Participation

All costs associated with the study will be covered. This includes:

The exam fee, blood work, and medication costs (approx. $1,500 value)
Any treatment related to side-effects will also be covered up to $3,000.

Interested?

Enroll or request more information below