Panelists gathered Jan. 14 for a National Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA) forum said there is no scientific evidence supporting a ban on the use of furosemide on race day.

The National HBPA, like most horsemen’s groups a staunch supporter of the use of furosemide, known as Salix or Lasix, to control the respiratory condition exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH). The organization is holding its winter convention in Hollywood Beach, Fla., through Jan. 16. The National HBPA Medication Committee regularly holds forums on issues of current interest.

The National HBPA has come out in support of a model rule calling for administration of furosemide by regulatory veterinarians only on race day. The organization opposes a ban on the drug on race day.

Steven Barker, MSc, PhD, chemist for the Louisiana State Racing Commission, sought to dispel what he called industry "myths" surrounding Salix. He said that contrary to some claims, Salix does not interfere with testing for other drugs when blood is tested; Salix isn’t performance-enhancing; Salix is effective in treating EIPH; and that it can’t be proven use of the drug is "denigrating" the Thoroughbred breed