Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Two dogs treated for suspected alpha lipoic acid poisoning
By Loftin, Erika G & Herold, Lee V·Published in Journal of veterinary emergency and critical care (San Antonio, Tex. : 2001)·2009·DoveLewis Emergency Animal Hospital, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Therapy and outcome of suspected alpha lipoic acid toxicity in two dogs.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A 5-year-old male Labrador was brought in after eating alpha lipoic acid (ALA), showing signs of behavioral changes and low blood sugar. He received aggressive treatment, including IV fluids with sugar, medications to protect his liver, and a plasma transfusion, which helped him recover fully. In contrast, a 7-year-old female Beagle was also exposed to ALA but was admitted much later, showing signs of kidney failure. Despite treatment with IV fluids and medications, her condition worsened, and she had to be euthanized.
People also search for: dog alpha lipoic acid toxicity · dog low blood sugar treatment · dog kidney failure symptoms
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To report a suspected toxicity in 2 dogs; to discuss therapy and prognosis. SERIES SUMMARY: Suspected alpha lipoic acid (ALA) toxicity was diagnosed based on clinical history and compatible laboratory findings in 2 dogs. Case 1 was presented within 10 hours of ALA ingestion, with initial behavioral changes likely due to hypoglycemia. During the course of hospitalization, hypoglycemia persisted and evidence of acute hepatic insult developed. With aggressive supportive care (including IV fluids with dextrose supplementation, hepatoprotective medications, and a plasma transfusion), he made a full recovery. Case 2 was presented approximately 60 hours after ALA ingestion, and was found to be in oliguric renal failure. She was treated with IV fluids, gastroprotective medications, and furosemide, but her condition deteriorated and she was ultimately euthanized within 16 hours of admission to the hospital. NEW OR UNIQUE INFORMATION PROVIDED: ALA is an uncommon but serious toxin that should be considered in cases presenting with hypoglycemia, acute renal failure, or acute hepatic insult.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19821894/