The efficacy of deslorelin implants in neutered male dogs that sexually attract other male dogs: a randomized controlled trial.
Deslorelin implants may reduce sexual attractiveness in neutered male dogs, with behavioral improvement seen in approximately 73% of treated dogs.
Where it sits
this study against the rest of the deslorelin corpusSummary and findings
This study evaluated the efficacy of deslorelin implants in reducing sexual attractiveness in neutered male dogs. Thirty gonadectomized male dogs were randomized to receive either a 4.7 mg deslorelin implant or a placebo. The results indicated a reduction in sexual attractiveness in 11 of 15 deslorelin-treated dogs compared to 5 of 15 placebo-treated dogs.
Abstract
Sexual attractiveness of neutered male dogs to other male dogs is a frequently reported phenomenon of unknown pathophysiology. As gonadectomized dogs exhibit elevated luteinizing hormone (LH) concentrations, this study evaluated the efficacy of deslorelin implants in a double-blinded randomized controlled trial (RCT) to mitigate sexual attractiveness. Thirty gonadectomized male dogs attractive to other dogs were recruited for this RCT. One group (n = 15) received a 4.7 mg deslorelin implant (Suprelorin® 4.7 mg, Virbac, France) and another group (n = 15) received a placebo implant. Following the implantation, owners documented behavior after 30-45, 90, 180 and 270 days. Additionally, blood samples were collected on days 0, 30-45 and 270 to determine follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) concentrations. Sexual attractiveness developed within 12 months after castration in all dogs. Reduced attractiveness was observed in 11 of the 15 deslorelin-treated dogs compared to 5 of the 15 placebo-treated dogs. The overall treatment effect for behavioral improvement (across all timepoints) amounted to an odds ratio (OR) of 5.47 (p = 0.017). The LH concentration decreased to basal levels in the deslorelin group but remained unchanged in the placebo group, whereas FSH concentrations stayed elevated in both groups. Deslorelin implants are a promising option, reducing sexual attractiveness in approximately three quarters of affected dogs. Additionally, our study revealed that deslorelin reduces elevated LH but not FSH concentrations in gonadectomized dogs. Further research is needed to validate long-term efficacy, determine optimal dosages and implantation intervals, and consider the use of additional behavioral therapy.
Background
Not reported in abstract.
Methods
Not reported in abstract.
Results
Not reported in abstract.
Interpretation
Not reported in abstract.
Limitations
Not reported in abstract.