Results of thyroid function tests and concentrations of plasma proteins in dogs administered etodolac

Abstract

Objective - To determine the effects of etodolac administration on results of thyroid function tests and concentrations of plasma proteins in clinically normal dogs. Animals - 19 healthy random-source mixed-breed dogs. Procedure - Blood samples for measurement of serum thyroxine (T4), 3,5,3′-triiodothyronine (T3), free T4 (fT4), and endogenous canine thyroid stimulating hormone (cTSH) were measured twice before as well as on days 14 and 28 of etodolac administration (mean dosage, 13.7 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h). Plasma total protein albumin and globulin concentrations and serum osmolality were measured once before as well as on days 14 and 28 of etodolac administration. Results - Etodolac administration did not significantly affect serum T4, T3, fT4, or cTSH concentrations or serum osmolality. Significant decreases in plasma total protein, albumin, and globulin concentrations were detected on days 14 and 28 of administration. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance - Results of thyroid function tests are not altered when etodolac is administered for up to 4 weeks. Therefore, interpretation of results of these tests should accurately reflect thyroid function during etodolac treatment. Plasma total protein, albumin, or globulin concentrations that are less than the respective reference range in a dog administered etodolac for ≥ 2 weeks may be an effect of treatment rather than an unrelated disease process. A decrease in plasma protein concentrations may reflect subdinical injury of the gastrointestinal tract.