Cancer Supplements

December 7, 2015

Receiving a cancer diagnosis for our pet can be devastating news.  And just as it is in human medicine, there are multiple approaches to treating a veterinary patient with this disease.  Above all, our ultimate goal is to alleviate suffering and provide as much comfort care as possible.  So here is a basic selection of supplements that have been shown to be useful to the cancer patient, human and animal alike.

As always, consult with your veterinarian before starting a supplement for your pet.

Antioxidants have anticancer effects, repair cellular damage, and boost the immune system

Vitamin A: dose ranges from 1000-10,000 IU per day depending on size (toxic potential)

Vitamin C: dose up to 25 mg per lb of body weight

Vitamin E: dose is 10 IU per lb body weight

Canna Pet is a hemp cannabinoid available for pets.  Just as medical marijuana is used in human cancer patients, this product claims to aid in appetite, mood, and pain relief.

Dose:  It can be purchased as a treat or capsule.

Curcurmin: A derivative of turmeric (a commonly used spice) it is an anti-inflammatory, an anti-oxidant, and an anti-cancer supplement all in one.

Dose: 15-20 mg/lb daily

Duralactin: This is a milk-based protein supplement shown to decrease inflammation.

Dose:  Use bottle for directions.

Glutathione: This is a power-house in the face of cancer. It already exists in every cell and is a powerful antioxidant and detoxifying agent.  It is not supplemented directly but by supplementing its precursors, the levels in the body will rise.

Glutamine: Also a precursor for glutathione, it also aids in muscle and immune function

Dose: 0.5 g/kg body weight per day

Immunocal: Essentially provides cysteine, a pre-cursor for glutathione, as well as whey protein to maintain muscle mass

Dose: This is a human supplement.  Follow directions on packaging making reasonable adjustments based on the size of your pet.

IP-6: A vitamin B derivative, this powerful substance not only improves overall immune function but can also negatively interfere with the behavior of cancer cells.

Dose: 10-50 mg/lb daily

Melatonin: Due to discomfort and nausea, sleep can be disrupted.  Melatonin can be used as a natural sleep aid and has also been shown to have anti-cancer properties and may enhance certain chemotherapies.

Dose: 0.2 mg/lb body weight 1-2 hours prior to bedtime – use extended release product

Omega 3 fatty acids: Not only are omega 3s anti-inflammatory, they have also been shown to inhibit tumor growth and metastasis, inhibit weight loss, and may also improve the effectiveness of certain chemotherapies.

Dose: 300 mg EPA / 200 mg DHA per 10# body weight

Vitamin D: is essential for immune health, inhibits tumor growth and metastasis

Dose: 400-2000 IU per day depending on size (toxic potential)

Written by: Dr. Jen Seidl