Evaluation of the tolerance and effects of 1-deoxynojirimycin on insulin and glucose dynamics in healthy horses and horses at risk for insulin dysregulation.

DNJ is well-tolerated and effectively reduces insulin responses in at-risk horses.

This prospective, three-phase clinical trial evaluated 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor derived from Morus alba leaf extract (Reducose®), in 27 horses comprising healthy controls and those at risk for insulin dysregulation (ID). Phase I established tolerance through escalating doses (0-5000 mg q12h); Phase II assessed dose-dependent effects on oral sugar test (OST) responses; Phase III evaluated duration of effect at various time points pre-OST over 28 days. DNJ demonstrated excellent safety with no adverse effects reported. Primary outcomes showed dose- and time-dependent reductions in insulin responses. At the highest dose (5000 mg q12h), peak insulin decreased from 33.4 to 18.8 μIU/mL, with AUC reduction of 18.6 μIU·h/mL. Significant benefits persisted when administered 0-1 hour pre-OST. These findings support DNJ as a potential adjunctive therapeutic option for managing insulin dysregulation in horses, addressing a significant welfare concern for which current management options remain limited.

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