The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority released a request for proposals July 30 for research into whether furosemide, more commonly known as Lasix, is a performance-enhancing drug in Thoroughbred racehorses. This research is required as part of HISA's congressional mandate. The conclusions of this research will guide HISA's Furosemide Advisory Committee in its recommendations to the HISA board on the next steps regarding the regulation of the drug.
A diuretic, Lasix is used to prevent respiratory bleeding in Thoroughbred racehorses. Critics of the drug believe it has been overused and that it can provide an advantage, in part due to weight loss. In recent years, Lasix use has been phased out from much of 2-year-old and stakes racing in the United States.
Responses to the RFP are due by Oct. 15, at 11:59 p.m. ET. Questions about the RFP and the process for submitting a response can be sent to Dr. Jennifer Durenberger at jennifer.durenberger@hisaus.org and/or Sam Reinhardt at samuel.reinhardt@hisaus.org. Final proposals can also be submitted via email to Dr. Durenberger and Mr. Reinhardt once completed.
