The Horseracing Safety and Integrity Authority has issued a request for proposal July 30 to study whether furosemide, commonly known as Lasix, is a performance-enhancing drug in Thoroughbred racehorses. The study is required as part of HISA’s congressional mandate. The findings of the study will guide HISA’s Furosemide Advisory Committee in its recommendations to the HISA board on next steps regarding regulation of the drug.
The diuretic Lasix is used to prevent respiratory bleeding in Thoroughbred racehorses. Critics of the drug believe it has been overused and may provide an advantage, partly through weight loss. In recent years, the use of Lasix has been phased out in 2-year-old racehorses and geldings.
Responses to the RFP must be submitted by October 15, 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. Questions about the RFP and the response submission process can be directed to Dr. Jennifer Durenberger at [email protected] and/or Sam Reinhardt at [email protected]. Final proposals may also be emailed to Dr. Durenberger and Mr. Reinhardt upon completion.
This press release has been edited for content and style by the BloodHorse team.
