Kentucky Equine Research (KER) recently conducted a series of studies on the effects of furosemide* (Lasix®) on horses in race training and found that treated horses lost up to four times as many electrolytes, including calcium, as untreated horses. Horses with insufficient electrolytes risk loss of stamina and early onset of fatigue.
Keeping horses healthy after strenuous activity
Studies on the effects of furosemide (Lasix®) on horses in race training found that treated horses lost up to four times as many electrolytes as untreated horses and horses with insufficient electrolytes risk fatigue and loss of stamina.
Since typical electrolyte supplements are formulated to replace the type and quantity of minerals lost in sweat, KER developed Race Recoveryâ¢, a system designed to strategically replenish the losses seen with increased urination associated with Lasix use, and help support recovery between fast works and races.
In studies conducted at KER, horses given Race Recovery drank more and maintained their body weight following Lasix administration and exercise. Race Recovery includes highly digestible forms of key minerals lost in urine.
Race Recovery is available online and from select track retailers and veterinarians. Learn more about Race Recovery, and read the research.
Furosimide* is the most commonly used diuretic in the horse. It increases urine production and decreases the amount of fluid within tissues and organs of the horse's body. It also acts upon the kidneys, causing increased excretion of electrolytes and water.
Furosemide is used to treat pulmonary edema, some allergic reactions, and congestive heart failure. Some veterinarians prescribe furosemide for racehorses because it is thought to prevent or diminish the severity of exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage or bleeding from the lungs and the recent research on Race Recovery recognizes the importance of doing what is best for the horse involved in strenuous activity such as racing or other areas of competition.