A feasibility study recently reported 10 people voluntarily fasting for 48 to 140 hours before treatment and for 5 to 56 hours after receiving various different chemotherapeutic agents [19]. Minimal adverse effects were described during fasting, and most subjects maintained that fewer chemotherapy-related toxicities were experienced after cycles for which they fasted at the time of treatment. However, to the authors’ knowledge, a formal prospective study has not evaluated

the effects of fasting on delayed-type CINV. A reduced incidence of anticipatory and acute CINV in dogs, both of which can contribute to the delayed-type Small molecule library cost in people, makes the canine species ideal for the study of delayed-type CINV. Herein, we report the findings of a prospective, randomized study using a crossover design to primarily evaluate the effects of fasting on delayed-type CINV in cancer-bearing dogs. Because IGF-1 levels have been implicated as playing an

important role in selective chemosensitization in mouse models and could have been affected by fasting, serum IGF-1 concentrations in both fasted and fed dogs were determined Selleck Sirolimus from samples collected immediately before doxorubicin administration. The effects of fasting on the incidence and severity of other commonly observed doxorubicin-induced toxicities including diarrhea, decreased activity, and bone marrow suppression were also evaluated. Doxacurium chloride The protocol and owner consent form were approved by the University of California, Davis (UC Davis) Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital Clinical Trials Review Board (No. 11-11-10) in accordance with campus policy regarding trials involving client-owned

dogs. Informed owner consent was obtained before enrollment of all patients. Cancer-bearing dogs presenting to the UC Davis William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital (VMTH) between February 2012 and June 2013, with the intention of pursuing at least two doses of doxorubicin during the course of their chemotherapy protocol were considered candidates for enrollment. All dogs received an examination by a VMTH oncology clinician before enrollment. To be included, dogs were required to have a physical examination and weight recorded, in addition to a complete blood count (CBC) and chemistry panel (performed within 2 weeks before enrollment). Clinical chemistry panels and CBCs from veterinary clinics other than the VMTH were considered acceptable. Both therapy-naïve and patients in relapse after standard of care were eligible for entry into this study. In addition, a favorable performance status indicating a high likelihood of receiving two doses of doxorubicin was necessary for inclusion. Dogs were required to be fed twice daily (A.M. and P.M.), or be fed ad lib, as part of the normal husbandry practices in the home. For entry into the study, owners consented to feed a consistent diet throughout the duration of the study.