Melatonin for Canine Cancer

Canine cancer is a disease that has many treatments but no cure. Melatonin is an alternate remedy that is currently being researched for its usefulness in fighting cancer causing agents, states Dr. Greg Cosma of Insight.

  1. The Facts

    • Melatonin is an antioxidant that is hypothesized to complement radiation therapy for dogs stricken with cancer. Unlike St. John's wort, melatonin does not hinder the radiation therapy given, according to Dog Cancer.

    Potential

    • According to Dr. Greg Cosma, melatonin has a straightforward ability to "scavenge certain free radicals." These free radicals have been linked to cancer, as well as heart disease and stroke.

    Significance

    • Combining traditional radiation therapy and an alternative remedy such as melatonin gives patients, human and canine, a better chance at recovery by treating the cancer as well as the emotional/mental issues involved, states Dog Cancer.

    Expert Insight

    • Cosma states that it is premature to give dosage information when more research is needed, but melatonin's properties look promising for future experimentation.

    Warning

    • Though melatonin is naturally produced in the body, consult a veterinarian before beginning a regimen of supplements.