If you have a herding breed dog, you likely know a bit (or maybe a lot) about the genetic variant called MDR1 (or ABCB1). We have been asked various questions about this genetic mutation and how certain chemicals are tolerated by dogs with this variant. So, let’s discuss MDR1 and sort all the confusion out!
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What is the MDR1 Gene?
The MDR1 (multi-drug resistance 1) or ABCB1 is a type of drug sensitivity that is the result of a genetic variant, which places these dogs at a higher risk of side effects and complications from certain types of drugs and chemicals.
This is because dogs with the MDR1 gene do not have the ability to clear certain substances from their body as quickly as a normal dog.
What Does it Mean if My Dog Has MDR1?
Dogs with MDR1 gene mutations have a change within a protein called P-glycoprotein or P-gp. P-gp helps eliminate drugs from the body after administration and helps keep drugs from crossing the blood-brain barrier or entering inappropriate organ tissue.
When P-gp does not function correctly, this can lead to fatal outcomes if the drugs do cross into the brain or other organ tissues. This protein also plays a significant role in cancer treatment, as cancer cells have several times more P-gp receptors on their membranes and will push out cancer drugs instead of allowing them into the cells.
However, this does not mean that ANY drug or chemical can’t be tolerated, just certain ones. The problem is that many “resources” and bloggers do not understand this and assume it applies to any drug, including CBD, which we will discuss shortly.
Breeds Commonly Affected By MDR1
Dogs most commonly affected by the MDR1 genetic variant are herding breeds, including, but not limited to, Australian Shepherds, Collies, German Shepherds, Shetland Sheepdogs (Shelties), Old English Sheepdogs, and American Shepherds. If you’re not sure if your dog has the MDR1 gene or want to find out, your vet can send out a simple blood test to be sure.
If your dog carries the MDR1 variant, it’s important to discuss any drug toxicity issues with your vet and always run any questionable supplement or drug by an experienced veterinarian before giving it to your MDR1 dog. Not all substances are toxic, but being extra cautious is warranted when you have this type of dog. Most heartworm preventative medications have been tested and shown to be without side effects, but drugs like Imodium can be fatal to a dog with the MDR1 variant.
Resources like this one from Washington State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine can be helpful for more information about safe medications and other dosing information.
Common Signs of Drug Toxicity in MDR1 Dogs
Signs of drug toxicity in MDR1 dogs can include:
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Weakness
Tremors
Seizures
Blindness
Ataxia
Can Dogs with MDR1 Use CBD?
Good news! Despite misinformation online, actual scientific studies verify that Full Spectrum Hemp Extract CBD oil is entirely safe for MDR1 dogs to use. Not only that, but the hundreds of thousands of customers who use our products on their MDR1 dogs can also attest to the safety and efficacy of our extracts for dogs with this genetic variation.
FSHE CBD oil is well-known for its immunomodulatory effects, which remain valid even for dogs with the MDR1 variant. This means that FSHE CBD will help your dog respond more appropriately to this natural medicine through its chemical structure, left unaltered by nature.
What makes FSHE so unique? Because FSHE is NOT a drug, despite its misclassification and demonization in years past. Whole plant medicine differs from isolated, synthesized chemicals created in a lab. This is the case when looking at FSHE vs. CBD isolate.
We know that FSHE does not have the side effects that isolate CBD does. FSHE is left in its complete state, using the entourage effect as a protective and productive mechanism. Isolates have been chemically modified and extracted from their natural form with other terpenes, flavonoids, and cannabinoids. This separation creates more issues, like liver toxicity. This logic can be applied to almost any other plant medicine- when you isolate and chemically alter the natural state of the substance, more harm than good is created.
FSHE is as safe as any other plant medicine, like Milk Thistle or Turmeric. The misclassification of FSHE as a drug has led many to believe it is not safe for dogs with MDR1, but this is simply not the case, as this study additionally demonstrates.
Can FSHE CBD Help Dogs with MDR1?
You bet! Just as with any other type of dog, FSHE will help with a myriad of issues by:
Modulating the immune system in all states of disease
Creating homeostasis by regulating the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
Reducing pain and inflammation
Easing stress-related issues like anxiety and car sickness/nausea
Balancing histamine response
And so, so much more!
Final Thoughts
The internet information waters are pretty muddy when researching FSHE and how it works. Fortunately, we understand and have the scientific knowledge to support our claims. Recent research combined with thousands of real-world uses shows that FSHE is a safe and effective remedy for dogs who have the MDR1 gene variant. So, if your beloved Aussie is itchy or your German Shepherd’s hips are a little stiff, give Full Spectrum Hemp Extract a go!
