Doxycycline
DOXYCYCLINE – Please discuss all information with your vet
Doxycycline is used as part of the metronomic protocol in conjunction with cyclophosphamide and anti-inflammatory medicines such as piroxicam or carprofen (Rimadyl ®)for the management of canine osteosarcoma. The principles behind its use include:
- its ability to suppress matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) which are enzyme systems that stimulate cancer cells and formation of metastatic deposits. Increased MMP activity has been correlated with the metastatic potential of many canine cancers, including osteosarcoma, melanoma, hemangiosarcoma and lymphoma.
- doxycycline can inhibit tumor cell proliferation by inducing programmed tumor cell death (known as apoptosis)
- may help to suppress the formation of new blood vessels within the tumor (known as anti-angiogenic effect).
- doxycycline is also highly osteotropic (greater affinity for bone) and thus may have greater value in managing primary bone cancer patient or in the prevention of bone metastasis.
SIDE EFFECTS
Nausea and vomiting are the most commonly reported side effects of Doxycycline in dogs, the incidence of which can be decreased by giving the medication with food.
INTERACTIONS WITH OTHER DRUGS
Doxycycline should not be given at the same time as calcium-containing antacids or vitamins that contain iron. These two substances will affect absorption of the Doxycycline, decreasing its benefits. Doxycycline should be given at least two hours away from either of these substances. Doxycycline may cause nausea if used in combination with theophylline (an airway dilator). It can also increase the effect of a heart medication known as Digoxin.
References
Matrix metalloproteinases participate in osteosarcoma invasion