I’m leasing a mare who has melanoma. I was talking to my vet about it and he mentioned that Cimetidine may be worth a try and is “affordable.” If you’ve used Cimetidine for melanoma, did it help? I couldn’t find 800mg tablets online but my vet said they’re out there… anyone know where to buy? Or who has the best price?
A horse in a barn I used to work at was on it. The Cimetidine seemed to keep the tumors in check and from growing. She was off of it for a few weeks at one time and the tumors definitely swelled. I’m not sure where the tablets were purchased from, I’m sorry!
I have used it. It has a pretty weak scientific basis for being a help with melanoma, but it is relatively cheap.
To reach its maximum efficacy, you need to dose every 8 hours. This schedule is just about impossible in a boarding situation. I had to pay extra to have it given on that schedule. I think most people just punt and dose it 2x a day. If it works, and it doesn’t always, or very well, it does tend to tail off after 18 months or so.
Most people have moved on to other, more effective approaches, like Oncept. They are also more expensive, but you get what you pay for.
You can get it in Smarkpaks. Vet has to calculate dosage, altho you can find the calculation online.
I’m not really a fan, but since it’s not your horse, no harm in giving it a try. If you owned the horse, I would tell you to save your money and look for a source for Oncept.
If you search Horse Care for melanoma, you will find many discussions on this topic.
Good luck!
I use a local vet, and a regional vet for special situations. The local vet says he does not recommend it. The specialty vet says she does not know if it helps, but knows that it will not make the situation worse.
