Furosemide and EIPH in Horses: What Every Horse Owner Needs to Know

What is EIPH in Horses?

Exercise-Induced Pulmonary Hemorrhage (EIPH) is a common condition in performance horses, especially racehorses and eventers, where blood enters the airways during or after intense exercise. This can impair breathing, reduce performance, and over time, lead to chronic respiratory issues.

Horses affected by EIPH may show signs such as:

Poor performance

Nasal bleeding (epistaxis)

Coughing after exercise

Labored breathing

However, not all horses with EIPH show visible signs, making it a challenge to diagnose without tools like endoscopy or tracheal wash.

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What is Furosemide (Lasix) and How Does it Work?

Furosemide, also known by the brand name Lasix, is a potent loop diuretic. In simpler terms, it helps the horse eliminate excess fluid from the body by increasing urine output. This reduction in blood volume is believed to:

Lower pulmonary blood pressure

Reduce the risk of capillary rupture in the lungs

Minimize bleeding during intense exercise

As a result, furosemide is widely used as a preventative treatment for EIPH in racing jurisdictions where it is allowed.

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Furosemide and Racehorses: Performance and Controversy

While furosemide is primarily used to manage EIPH, studies have shown it may also enhance performance by:

Decreasing body weight through fluid loss

Improving oxygen exchange by minimizing bleeding

However, its use remains controversial in the horse racing world. Critics argue that:

It may provide an unfair competitive advantage

Frequent use can lead to electrolyte imbalances and dehydration

It may mask other issues or medications

Due to these concerns, some jurisdictions have banned or restricted the use of furosemide on race day, sparking ongoing debates in the equine industry.

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How is Furosemide Administered to Horses?

Furosemide is typically administered intravenously (IV) about 4 hours before a race or strenuous exercise. The timing is critical for both effectiveness and compliance with racing regulations.

Dosage usually ranges between 0.5 mg/kg to 1.0 mg/kg, depending on the horse’s weight and regulatory limits.

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Are There Risks or Side Effects?

Yes. Like all medications, furosemide comes with potential side effects:

Dehydration

Electrolyte imbalances (especially potassium and chloride)

Increased urination

Reduced feed intake

Because of these risks, horses on furosemide may require supplemental electrolytes and careful hydration management, especially in hot climates or during multi-day events.

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Alternatives to Furosemide for Managing EIPH

If you're looking for drug-free strategies to manage or reduce EIPH in horses, here are some alternatives being explored:

Training modifications (interval training, conditioning)

Nasal strips (e.g., Flair Strips)

Nutritional support to improve vascular health

Environmental control to reduce dust and allergens

While none are as immediately effective as furosemide, combined management strategies may reduce the frequency or severity of EIPH episodes.

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Regulations on Furosemide Use in Horses

Depending on where you are, furosemide use may be:

Permitted on race day (with pre-race vet supervision)

Restricted to training only

Banned entirely

Major racing organizations like The Jockey Club and Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) in the U.S. are working toward phasing out race-day use of furosemide, especially in graded stakes races.

Always check with your veterinarian and local racing commission for the most up-to-date regulations.

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Final Thoughts: Should You Use Furosemide for Your Horse?

If your horse has been diagnosed with EIPH, furosemide remains one of the most effective treatments available today. However, it's not without risks or controversy. A balanced approach, involving your vet, trainer, and compliance with local rules, is key to making the best decision for your horse’s health and performance.

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Need help managing EIPH in your horse?

Talk to your equine veterinarian about whether furosemide is right for your horse, and explore the best strategies for keeping your equine athlete healthy and competitive.

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FAQs

Q: Is furosemide legal in horse racing?

A: It depends on the jurisdiction. Some allow it under strict rules; others are moving toward a ban.

Q: Can furosemide improve a horse’s performance?

A: Yes, but primarily through EIPH management and temporary weight loss. It’s not a performance-enhancing drug in the traditional sense.

Q: Are there long-term side effects of furosemide use in horses?

A: Chronic use can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, so it should be used with care.

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