A groundbreaking clinical trial in the United States is exploring a potential lifespan-extending drug for dogs.
Loyal, a San Francisco-based animal health company, is leading the STAY study, a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to determine the drug's effectiveness.
At least 1,000 senior dogs have been enrolled, with researchers hoping to secure FDA approval after analysing the results. Previous preclinical and pilot studies have shown promising outcomes.
Once a dog is approved for the study, it will receive daily medication for up to four years while being monitored for health and longevity benefits.
Since the study is double-blind, neither the veterinarians nor the pet owners will know whether the dog is receiving the experimental drug or a placebo.
“When the study concludes, and we analyse the data, we'll have clear evidence of whether this drug truly works,” said Alex Robb, Medical Director at Goodheart Animal Health Center in Colorado, one of the participating clinics.
To qualify, dogs must be at least 10 years old and weigh 6.3 kg (14 pounds) or more. They must also have their primary care transferred to the study clinic. The fur babies are also to attend six clinic visits in the first year, followed by two visits annually.
Owners must also commit to participating in the study for the entire four-year duration. Recruitment is ongoing, and researchers are still looking for more participants. If sufficient data is collected, Loyal could apply for conditional FDA approval by the end of the year.
Dogs have higher metabolic rates than humans, leading to faster aging and a shorter lifespan. Their bodies function at a more accelerated pace, causing wear and tear over time.
Veterinary medicine has made notable advancements, but improvements in canine longevity have lagged behind human medicine. Researchers hope this new drug will help slow the aging process, potentially extending the lifespan and quality of life for senior dogs.
