Blood glucose and insulin concentrations after alpha-2-agonists administration in horses with and without insulin dysregulation.

Background: In metabolically stable horses, alpha-2-agonists suppress insulin secretion with transient hyperglycemia and rebound hyperinsulinemia. In horses with insulin dysregulation (ID), the effect of alpha-2-agonists has not been investigated; however, both the alpha-2-agonist-induced suppression of insulin secretion and rebound hyperinsulinemia could have clinical relevance.

Hypothesis/objectives: In horses with ID, alpha-2-agonists will alter insulin and glucose dynamics.