Effect of Fenofibrate on Markers of Gut Barrier Function in Dogs With Naturally Occurring Diabetes Mellitus

ABSTRACT Background Fenofibrate improves gut barrier function and reduces serum lipids in purpose‐bred dogs with induced diabetes mellitus (DM), but its effects in dogs with naturally occurring DM are unknown. Objectives Determine the effects of fenofibrate on markers of systemic and pancreatic inflammation, markers of gut barrier function, lipoprotein profiles, and glycemic control in dogs with naturally occurring DM. Animals Sixteen client‐owned dogs with naturally occurring, uncomplicated DM. Methods Longitudinal cohort study. Dogs were treated with fenofibrate (Tricor, 6–10 mg/kg, P.O., once daily) for 21 days. Interstitial glucose, serum cytokines, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), pancreatic lipase, and lipid profiles were compared between baseline and day 21 using paired t‐tests and Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests. Results Fenofibrate had no effect on glycemic control, serum cytokines, or serum pancreatic lipase. Compared to baseline, the concentrations of serum LPS decreased at day 21 by (mean ± SD) 15 ± 24% (95% CI 2–28%, p = 0.03), serum triglycerides decreased by 36 ± 39% (95% CI 15–56%, p = 0.002), and serum cholesterol decreased by 20 ± 14% (95% CI 12–28%, p < 0.0001). Conclusions and Clinical Importance Fenofibrate treatment was not associated with a decrease in markers of systemic or pancreatic inflammation. In diabetic dogs, short‐term fenofibrate treatment appears to be safe, and the improvement in gut barrier function and lipid profiles might lead to long‐term benefits, such as reduction in pancreatitis risk and frequency of signs of gastrointestinal disease.