In MDR1 wild-type dogs (and presumably cats), ketoconazole and spinosad are most often associated with severe adverse effects because of their ability to inhibit P-glycoprotein function. 4,7,14 Ivermectin toxicosis has been documented in MDR1 wild-type dogs receiving ivermectin in combination with either ketoconazole or spinosad. 15 In addition Veterinarians should be aware of which patients to test for MDR1 mutations and how to manage their medications to avoid neurotoxicity and even death in some dogs. Gabapentin can be risky in MDR1 dogs due to the genetic mutation that affects the elimination of the drug from the system. The risks of gabapentin in MDR1 dogs include sedation, ataxia, seizures, and respiratory depression. Here is the list of drugs that may be poorly tolerated by dogs with MDR1 gene mutation. In dogs who possess the MDR1 mutation, defective p-glycoproteins allow higher levels of drugs to enter the brain, increasing neurologic effects of some medications. Ivermectin and other related drugs (milbemycin, selamectin) are commonly used in the prevention and treatment of parasites. LIST OF DRUGS THAT CAUSE SENSITIVITY TO DOGS WITH MDR1 MUTATION. Class A DO NOT use these drugs in dogs with the MDR1 Gene Defect Ivermectine substances "Anti parasites": (Diapec®, Ecomectin®, Equimax®, Eqvalan®, Ivomec®, Noromectin®, Paramectin®, Qualimec®, Sumex®, Virbamec®) Doramectine substances "Anti parasites": (Dectomax® ) Which Dog Breeds Are Affected? The MDR1 mutation has been identified primarily in dogs of herding breed ancestry. In fact, all dogs affected by MDR1 are thought to be descendants of a single dog that lived in Great Britain before the genetic isolation of breeds. 16 Table 2, next page, lists breeds and approximate frequency of the MDR1 mutation. Dogs with the MDR1 genetic mutation can become very ill or die if given certain medications. WSU is the leader in identifying drugs that may be dangerous for dogs with the MDR1 mutation and can identify alternative medications and doses. Dogs with the MDR1 mutation are at risk of serious drug toxicities at doses that are safe to other dogs. In some cases these can even lead to death. Which Breeds Are Affected? The following list shows the common dog breeds most likely to have the MDR1 mutation, and the percentage affected in each. Multidrug Resistance 1 (MDR1) drug sensitivity is the result of a genetic variant that can place dogs at risk of severe or life-threatening complications after taking particular medications at specific doses. What Is Gabapentin for Dogs? Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant and analgesic drug that is commonly prescribed by veterinarians to treat pain, seizures, and anxiety in dogs. How gabapentin works is not completely understood; however, it is thought to block stimulation of the nerve cells. P-gp function can be impaired in both dogs and cats and can result in significant adverse drug reactions. P-gp deficiency can be intrinsic or acquired. Intrinsic deficiency can be due to either an inherited MDR1 mutation (eg, deficiency seen in herding breeds) or spontaneous mutation in any dog, as well as in cats. Acquired P-gp dysfunction The MDR1 mutation has also been found in Shetland sheepdogs (Shelties), Australian shepherds, old English sheepdogs, English shepherds, German shepherds, long-haired whippets, silken windhounds, and a variety of mixed-breed dogs. The only way to know if an individual dog has the mutant MDR1 gene is to have the dog tested. High doses of Ivermectin are still used for treating mange and should be avoided in any MDR1 status dogs. A common misconception is that MDR1 status dogs are affected by metronidazole, but that is inaccurate because it is not transported by P-glycoprotein. Also, vaccines do not cause any reactions related to the MDR1 gene. Although these drugs can be used in dogs with MDR1 mutation, it is important to remember that these dogs may be more sensitive to these drugs and may require lower dosages or lower dosing frequency. In addition, it is important for the veterinarian to carefully weigh the risks and benefits of any medication before prescribing it to a dog with an MD Multidrug Sensitivity By Sue Floyd, VMD Some dog breeds are more sensitive to certain drugs than other breeds. Collies and related breeds, for instance, can have a genetic predisposition to adverse drug reactions involving many different drugs. These drug sensitivities result from a mutation in the multidrug resistance gene (MDR1 gene.) Dogs with the mutant gene cannot Dogs with the MDR1 mutation have altered metabolism of this medication and are more prone to intestinal side effects. A dose reduction will be necessary. If you are unfamiliar with the MDR1 mutation (common in collie-related breeds). Grapirant has not been studied in dogs with heart disease. Affected dogs and cats have 2 copies of the mutated MDR1 gene and always pass 1 copy of the defective gene to offspring. Homozygotes have potentially fatal sensitivity to certain antiparasitic and chemotherapeutic agents. Contraindications: Should be used at lower than recommended doses in dogs who have the MDR1 (ABCB1) mutation. Should be used with caution in dogs who have cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal disease, kidney disease, or liver disease. Should not be used in dogs who weigh less than 8 pounds or in puppies that are younger than 9 months of age. A dog who inherits one or two copies of the MDR1 mutation will be at risk, but dogs with two copies of the mutation are more susceptible. What you can do to protect your dog. Ask your breeder if they tested their breeding dogs and if they are clear or carriers of the MDR1 gene; Get your dog(s) tested for the MDR1 mutation
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