Aminocaproic Acid
Aminocaproic Acid
N. J. Thompson
2005-07-29Lifelearn Limited
AMINOCAPROIC ACID
What is aminocaproic acid?
Aminocaproic acid is an agent that prevents the breakdown of fibrin, a protein needed for proper blood clotting. It has been advocated by R.M. Clemmons, Associate Professor of Neurology and Neurosurgery at the University of Florida Veterinary College for the treatment of chronic degenerative radiculo-myelopathy (CDRM). This is a condition in which nerve tissue breaks down, like Multiple Sclerosis in people. The breed most affected is the German Shepherd Dog.
While aminocaproic acid has been shown to provide very little benefit in the treatment of spinal cord trauma, Dr. Clemmons believes it can contribute significantly to a favorable outcome in up to eighty percent of cases of German Shepherd degenerative myelopathy (GSDM), especially when used with other supplements and diets. Details on the protocol can be found at http://neuro.vetmed.ufl.edu/neuro/DM_Web/DMofGS.htm.
Aminocaproic acid is used to intervene at a critical stage in the development of CDRM. Dr. Clemmons believes that the spinal cord is indirectly attacked by the immune system in degenerative myelopathy. Antibodies clump around invaders in the blood. These clumps normally float in the bloodstream until they are either filtered by the liver or spleen.
Occasionally they instead stick to and damage blood vessel walls, stimulating the formation of a blood clot. Clots are normally broken down through inflammation but if the clot happens to be in a delicate tissue like the nerves supplying the hind legs, then damage can be done. Aminocaproic acid is used to reduce clot breakdown in the delicate tissues of the nervous system, reducing nerve damage.
How successful is aminocaproic acid?
This is difficult to answer as aminocaproic acid is not used by itself in the treatment of DM, and DM has a variable course in some pets.
Theoretically, aminocaproic acid with other prescribed supplements should help pets with CDRM, and some dogs seem to show positive results. Clemmons estimates the response rate in German Shepherds may be as high as 80 percent. It is extremely difficult to confirm aminocaproic acid as being effective by using controlled clinical studies.
How safe is aminocaproic acid?
Aminocaproic acid is safe when used as directed under veterinary supervision. Mild gastrointestinal irritation may occur.
Where do I get aminocaproic acid and do I need a prescription?
A prescription is needed for aminocaproic acid. Best results seem to be achieved with oral use of the powdered preparations originally intended to be used for injection. Tablet forms are considered too expensive and not as effective.
This is a very leading edge treatment without any guarantees of success. However, we would be happy to discuss using the protocol described by Dr. Clemmons if you have a GSD with CDRM. Please talk to one of our vets.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND ADVICE CONSULT YOUR VETERINARY SURGEON.
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Caution: These Health Care Notes have been written by Nicholas M J Thompson, BVM&S, BSc, VetMFHom, MRCVS for Lifelearn Limited and are licensed to this practice, for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written permission of Lifelearn Ltd. Please note that the information included is the personal opinion of expert author(s) and that because many conditions can have confusing signs, these notes are NOT a substitute for a proper clinical examination of your pet in our practice. If you have any concern, please call us.
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