VETERINARY STUDY
Effects Of Oral Enzyme Supplementation Upon Musculoskeletal Inflammation

A Summary of Veterinary Clinical Research Compiled by David Randall, DVM, - Completed April 15, 1989

CONTRIBUTING VETERINARIANS
David Randall, DVM, Naples, FL; Clyde Brooks, DVM, Brevard, NC; Lewis B. Randall, DVM, Naples, FL; Floyd Johnson, DVM, Garrett, IN; Michelle Tilghman, DVM, Stone Mt., GA; Charles Ackley, DVM, Kettering, OH

ABSTRACT
387 dogs with various musculoskeletal inflammatory conditions were supplemented with over a 30 day period with the unique enzyme-rich antioxidant formula found in Biovet Pet Wafer. The veterinarians prescribing the product reported significant improvements in mobility, range of motion, relief of pain and reduction of swelling in 340 cases (88%).

INTRODUCTION
Musculoskeletal inflammation is a major cause of discomfort and debility in millions of older canines. Inflammation caused as a result of excess free radical activity is well established. (Segal, 1984; McCord, 1983). Problems with inflammation in the joints may be due to degradation of synovial fluid in the cavity through free radical reactions (McCord, 1974).

The use of injectable superoxide dismutase was thought to be the dawning of a new era in arthritis treatment. Its anti-inflammatory effect is well documented and thought to be due to superoxide dismutase's free radical scavenging ability. (Huber, et al, 1978; McCord, 1974; Cushing, et al, 1973; and Faull, et al, 1976). However, limited by cost and convenience superoxide dismutase is rarely utilized in clinical settings.

MATERIALS
The limitations of injectable superoxide dismutase for use in clinical setting have led to the development of a unique, enzyme-rich vegetable (sprout) source for this and other related antioxidant enzymes (i.e. catalase). The enzyme-rich antioxidant formula found in Pet Wafer has established the ability to affect blood levels of superoxide dismutase and catalase (Rothschild, et. al., 1988). In light of the correlation between free radicals and inflammation, this study was conducted with the help of veterinarians in private practice to determine the overall effect of this convenient, tableted preparation on the symptoms of inflammation in canines.

METHODS
387 dogs, ranging in sizes from 10 to 125 pounds, in ages from 6 months to 18 years, were reported from the six contributing veterinarians. In all cases the inflammations were noninfectious and either the result of injury, stress, developmental conditions or aging. The main characteristic was osteoarthritis with clinical signs of loss of mobility and movement, pain, and in some cases edema and swelling. In most cases the patient had received no prior treatment. In all cases, the enzyme-rich antioxidant formula found in Biovet Pet Wafer was used as the primary therapy. In all cases patients were symptomatic at beginning of trial The diagnosis was made by the veterinarian using standard techniques including radiographic evaluation, pin-prick test and palpitation, as well as owner reports.

FINDINGS
Of the 387 cases reported in this study, 340 patients demonstrated increased mobility, function and range of motion, with decreased pain and swelling in affected areas. Although 63 of the 340 patients did not show significant improvement until the fourth week, the average response time of the entire group was 8 days.

All 340 cases which demonstrated improvement also reported increased levels of mobility as treatment time extended past initial response point. In most cases, a minimum of 1 tablet for each 60 pounds of body weight per day was necessary to achieve a measurable response.

Along with obvious benefits to inflammatory conditions, the 340 patients demonstrated one or more of the following changes: Increased energy, alertness, stamina, return of normal appetite and accelerated healing in those cases with recent surgery or accidental trauma.

CONCLUSION
All the veterinarians supplementing with the enzyme-rich antioxidant formula found in Pet Wafer reported objective evidence of improvements in the relief of inflammatory conditions in 340 of 387 dogs. Based upon scientific evidence correlating free radical pathology with inflammatory conditions, it is indicated that the special antioxidant qualities of the whole food supplement are the probable mode of action to achieve these results. Pet Wafer whole food antioxidant enzyme complex emphasizing Superoxide Dismutase and catalase. Product derived from blends of plant sprouts, dried and tableted.

REFERENCES:
Cushing, L.S., Decker, WE., Santos. F.K., Schulte, FL., and Huber, W. - Orgotein Therapy For Inflammation In Horses. Mod. Vet Pract. 54, 17-20. (1973).

Huber, W., Schulte, T.L.. Carson S. Goldhamar, R.E. and Vogin, E. - Some Chemical And Pharmacological Properties Of A Novel Anti-Inflammatory Protein. Toxic appl. Pharmac. 12,308. (1978),

Faull, G.L., Baker, B de B, Walt. H. S. and Hofmeyr, C.F.B. - Clinical Trails With Orgotein (Palozein), JI, 5, Air. Vet, Assoc. 47, 38-40. (1976).

McCord, J.M. - Free Radicals and Inflammation Protections of Synovial Fluid by Superoxide Dismutase. Science 185. 529-31. (1974).

McCord, J.M.. The Superoxide Free Radical: It's Biochemistry and Pathophysiology. Surgery 94: 404-408, (1983).

Parks, D.A., Bulkey, G.B., Granger, D.N., et al. - Ischemic Injury in the Cat Small Intestine. Role of Superoxide Radicals. Gastroenterology, 82:9-1 5, (1982).

Rothschild, P., Ordonez, L., - Absorption study with Superoxide Dismutase, University Labs Press, 2639 S. King St. Honolulu, HI 96828. (1988).

Segel, A.W., - Superoxide Generation, Cytrochrome B-245, and Chronic Granulomatose Disease. Advances In Inflammatory Research, vol. 8. New York. Raven Press. pp. 55-82. (1984)