2ND EPIC STUDY PUBLICATION
objective
The 2nd EPIC Study publication investigated the effect of pimobendan on clinical variables and the relationship between a change in heart size and the time to CHF or CRD in dogs with MMVD and cardiomegaly.1
study design1,2
- Prospective, blinded study in dogs with Stage B2 MMVD. Dogs were randomised (1:1) to pimobendan or placebo groups
- Relationships between short-term changes in echocardiographic variables and time to congestive heart failure (CHF) or cardiac-related death (CRD) were explored at different time points:
35
4
findings
HEART SIZE ON DAY 35—LVIDDN Measurement
(Normalised left ventricular internal diameter in diastole)
VETMEDIN®
Baseline-0.06 cm decreased
PLACEBO
Baseline+0.01 cm increased
*P = <0.0001
Absolute Change From Baseline Median (Average)
* Between-group comparison (Mann-Whitney)
STUDY CONCLUSION
The 2nd EPIC Study publication findings further highlight the benefit of a proactive approach to preclinical MMVD. Results continue to support the case for early treatment of MMVD during Stage B2 to positively impact the life of dogs with MMVD.1
1-MONTH
IMPACT
Within the first month of pimobendan treatment, dogs demonstrated significant
decrease in heart size.
REDUCTION IN HEART SIZE
Observed heart size reduction was maintained over study duration, with dogs treated with pimobendan having a smaller average heart size.
MORE
TIME
In asymptomatic Stage B2
of heart disease*
Research studies support the link between increased heart size and increased risk of CHF and CRD.3-6
