Horse Cataracts

How Do Can-C Eye Drops Actually Reverse Horse Cataracts?

Firstly, it is now known that cataract is the result of elevating levels of “ascorbate oxidation” or oxidative stress due in part to oxygen free radicals in the eye. This unchecked oxidation results in the cross linking of lens proteins, which is a slow glycosylation process. Cross linking of the lens proteins eventually causes a yellowing or browning pigmentation of the lens or (lens opacification) limiting the amount of light that reaches the retina, resulting in worsening vision.

This degenerative process occurs and advances as the natural antioxidant supply in the eye diminishes. Critical antioxidant supplies are continually being tapped from the eye, for protection against over exposure to ultraviolet light and against toxins and chemicals.

Researchers recently learned that the healthy eye contains high levels of the natural antioxidant carnosine. Interestingly the eyes of those suffering from degenerative ocular diseases such as cataracts were found to be grossly deficient in this essential ocular antioxidant.

The prime ingredient in Can-C™ is a proprietary form of N-acetylcarnosine, a highly specific intraocular released form of carnosine which acts as both a stabilizer and carrier for the di-peptide L-carnosine, safely delivering it into the aqueous humour of the eye (the fluid area surrounding the lens). It is here, that the bio-identical antioxidant becomes most active in its ability to act as a natural and highly effective anti-oxidant.

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  CAN-C Ingredients

Research Evidence on N-Acetyl-Carnosine, Can-C Eye Drops

The testing of various anti-glycation agents over nearly a decade led a Russian research team to the development of n-alpha-acetylcarnosine as a delivery system for the natural ocular anti-oxidant L-carnosine. Once laboratory testing was passed, the next stage began to test the N-acetyl-carnosine Can-C eye-drops in the eyes of animals, (specifically canines and rabbits). These studies produced remarkably fast results in the improvement of clarity and overall vision for the animals involved. Furthermore, no side effects were noted and the beneficial affects were sustainable. Unsurprisingly, these positive results in animals led to the studies being continued in humans with similar positive results.

“The treatment of age-related cataracts in canines and rabbits has been conducted and the efficacy of using N-acetylcarnosine for cataract treatment was established. The striking results in canines and rabbits for both cataract reversal and prevention of lens opacities are clear.”

Dr. Mark Babizhayev MA, PhD

Senior Research Investigator –

 Innovative Vision Products

Results in the Russian clinical trials were quite impressive with canines with no negative side affects. Dr. Babizhayev has also noted that Can-C appears to work even more effectively in canines than in humans.

Jennifer Jones, a representative of Innovative Vision Products, the company that developed the Can-C™ eye drops, suggests that horse owners apply three drops a day to each eye of horses that has evidence of cataracts or other eye problems. Once the eye abnormalities have been resolved, this dosage can be reduced to one drop a day. Keep in mind that the use of any unapproved drug for your animals should also be discussed with your veterinarian.

NOTE: Can-C™ is manufactured in a GMP certified, pharmaceutical facility which meets ISO 9001:2000 and ISO 13485:2003 standards for the design/formulation and manufacture of sterile contact lens solution and pharmaceutical solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Can-C Eye Drops for Horse Cataracts

Q. Are Can-C™ Eye Drops Really safe for animals?
A: Yes, N-Acetylcarnosine (Can-C™) eye drops have been researched in humans and in animals for over ten years and used for more than five years by thousands in Russia, China, Europe and the US without any side effects or complications. In fact the antioxidant properties of N-acetylcarnosine (Can-C™) appear to soothe and improve the overall health of eyes for all mammals. . Can-C™ is manufactured in a GMP (Good Manufacturing Procedures) facility per Dr. Mark Babizhayev’s protocols and FDA guidelines, however only the lubricants (Carboxymethylcellulose sodium) and (glycerin) are approved by the FDA for ophthalmic use. Can-C™ is not yet FDA approved for the treatment of canine cataracts as the clinical trials have been conducted primarily in Russia over the last decade; therefore N-Acetylcarnosine (1%) is listed as an inactive ingredient on the label.

Q: I have been told that my horse is too large for cataract surgery. Can I use these cataract eye drops for him?

A. Can-C is a great solution for animals that do not have surgery as an option, and has been successfully used to treat the cataracts of horses of all sizes.

Q. What percentage of your customers actually reverse cataracts in their pets?

A: All customers who use the product per instruction will see improvements in their pet’s cataract condition. The level of results can vary depending upon the maturity of the cataract at the outset of treatment. Additionally, injury induced horse cataracts and horse cataracts that result from steroid medications or diabetes can be more resistant and can take longer to respond to the product. Consistency of application is even more critical to success in the above mentioned scenarios and can mean the difference between minimal results and very good results. Again, initial improvements generally present within the first 2-3 months. Optimal results are achieved with 6 – 12 months use. Once the optimal level of improvement has been reached, within 6 to 12 months time, it is advised to reduce the dose to 1 drop daily in the treated eye(s).

I’ve been using the Can-C eye drops since maybe late March. Emmy lost a first eye to a cataract sometime last year. She lost the second eye to cataracts about mid March of this year. I can’t recall how soon after that I learned about CAN-C from internet searches so I’ll guess maybe late March of this year was about the time frame. At any rate, I want to make your day by telling you that some six months later I am convinced that there have been some improvements of whatever degree. Mind you the horse is still blind, for all intents and purposes. Keep in mind that she lived nearly all her life (21 years) at a boarding stable so knew her way around very well. Still, though, the loss of sight made familiar things scary to her and we had to work towards rebuilding her confidence. Then in mid July, I purchased some property and moved her to the country, to actual pasture (vs. a small dry lot) for the first time in her life. Terrible last minute jitters overwhelmed me concerning how Emmy would adjust to such severe changes given her lack of sight. Her 29-year old seeing eye horse, Dolly, (who wears a cow bell for Emmy’s sake) came along to ease her and my mind. Naturally, Emmy took to pasture like a duck takes to water. It has been a positive change where her happiness, as well as confidence level are concerned. By spending 12-14 hours a day grazing she is occupied and on the move constantly vs. standing around in a dry lot like a stump. Within maybe the last 4-6 weeks, though, I feel like I am seeing other very positive changes with her that surely mean there has been some physical break through with her sight, however marginal. No she cannot see the thin strands of barb-less wire fencing and bumps into it often. But she does seem to be acknowledging larger obstacles now, such as the run-in shelter, water trough, etc. Last night I called her in for grain and she came at a fast trot right past the run-in shelter. I held my breath because she came from such a far distance that when she neared the shelter I readied myself to shout “EMMY WHOA,” which trust me I’ve done time and time again. She trotted right past it and straight to me. I nearly cried. Then I opened the gate for her and let her go through on her own. She again trotted right past me and over to the barn area where I feed grain. It blew me away. A few nights ago I separated her from the other two horses for a few hours (putting her in one pasture and them in another). Then I lead her through the gate and released her to go to the other two out grazing in the pasture a fair distance away. Robert she cantered to them. It was the first time I’ve seen her do that on her own, since the cataracts were diagnosed. Could she have just smelled her herd? Possibly. On the other hand, might she have seen them as blobs or outlines or obstacles? Possibly!! Sure she “knew” they were out there somewhere. But going straight to them AND at a canter was a different story. And again, these types of things didn’t happen right after we moved to this property on July/10. They have just recently begun to happen. Granted some may say that her senses have merely heightened, at this point. Heck I’ll buy that philosophy too!!! But I have to give some credit to these drops because I feel that are enough little oddities about her that are beyond just increased confidence and familiarity with surroundings. I know my way around too. But if you blindfold me and spin me around and take me many acres past where I was standing when you blindfolded me, see how well I find my way back – not very well. Emmy developed uveitis, which caused the cataracts. So I don’t ever expect her to be a sighted horse again, as it were. Even if she is seeing some degree of shadows now and perhaps a better degree of light than she was back in March (and I think that maybe this is the case), I’ll take it!!! Better is better and that works for me. I thank God Almighty that I did not put her down, as some had hinted I should do. Dawn

A: If the cataract is advanced to the point of total blindness the results are likely to be less than a 100% reversal with the use of Can-C. Cataracts at this stage often have hardened significantly and are more resistant to the good effects of Can-C™. Several points here; once cataracts have reached this advanced stage they become a constant irritant to the animal. The eyes can become very prone to infection as a result. Sadly, in many of these more severe cases, removal of the eye is advised. Can-C™ can reduce the risk of infection and even reduce these more mature cataracts in some instances with extended use. It is also important to note that the irritation can be significantly reduced as a result of Can-C™ being applied daily. As always it is advised to follow the advice of your veterinarian.

Q. Do the newer cataracts have a better success rate with this product?

A: In the human clinical trials, those who had cataracts for less than seven years experienced the most dramatic results. Those who had cataracts for seven to 15 years still received very good results. Those who had cataracts for more than 15 years experienced less dramatic improvements. This information tells us that the expected outcome is somewhat improved when treatment is initiated at the earlier stages of cataract development. However often with more mature cataracts it simply takes a little longer to achieve comparable results.

Q. What percentage of the cataract is removed in most cases?

A: The cataract is often fully reversed. With very mature cataract there is at least a very significant improvement in eye sight however complete reversal may not be possible depending upon the severity of the situation. Improvement in your horse’s behavior and negotiation abilities is generally a good indicator of the desired result being achieved. Additionally you can actually see by looking into your horse’s eye when the cataract begins to get smaller and then smaller.

Dr. Babizhayev, as a veterinarian I want to let you know that I am now recommending N-acetylcarnosine (Can-C™) for the treatment of canine cataracts. After applying Can-C™ eye drops to the my 15 year old miniacher pinscher, “Skeeter”, for one year, the cataract in his right eye has diminished! I have come to the conclusion that your cataract eye drops are a modern scientific miracle for our pets. From my observations it has prevented Skeeter from going blind and improved his overall aging experience! If your pet has cataracts ask your veterinarian or a pet ophthalmologist about this amazing product. Jack Stephans DVM – Pets Best Insurance

Q. How will I be able to tell if the product is working or not?

A: In animals, the cataract is very visible to our view. You can actually see the cataract shrinking over time with the use of this product. The cataract will generally shrink from the parameter inward and so your horse may have improvements in his/her peripheral vision first. The behavior of your horse is the best indicator however and with the return of sight and resulting improved ability to navigate their surroundings come improved confidence, mood and behavior. All of these indicators will clearly let you know that the product is working. At the end of 6 months if you are not sure you may want to visit your vet to determine if it is time to go to the maintenance dose of 1 drop daily or to continue a little longer with the reversal dose of 3 drops  daily.

Q. Are there any potential side effects?

A: With this formula, utilized in 10 years of human and animal clinical trials, there have been no reported side effects or contra-indications, even when used everyday for up to 2 years. Generally use of this natural anti-oxidant formulation is soothing and improves the overall environment in the eye.

Q. Will my horse’s cataract come back again after it has been reversed?

A: While it takes 3 drops daily over 3 – 12 months to reverse cataract it takes far less to prevent the re-growth of cataract. Therefore, once optimal level of reversal has been achieved only one drop daily will prevent the return of cataract. At this point the product will last far longer and so it will be far less expensive to maintain the health of your horse’s eyes. Keep in mind that the same imbalance that allowed the cataract to form in the first place will still be present in your horse if you discontinue use of the product entirely. Unfortunately cataract will likely return, in a relatively short period of time, unless n-acetylcarnosine is being applied regularly to the eye.

Q. How long will each box of Can-C™ Eye Drops last?

A: Each box of Can-C contains two 5ml vials and each 5ml vial contains approximately 75 drops. When used to treat degenerative ocular conditions such as cataracts, one box will last approximately three weeks (3 drops in each affected eye daily). When used as a preventive or maintenance measure, only one drop in each eye daily is needed, therefore one box of Can-C will last longer.

Q. What are the ingredients?

Can-C™ Ingredients:

Active ingredients: Glycerine (lubricant) 1%, Carboxymethylcellulose sodium (lubricant) 0.3%.
Inactive ingredients: Sterile Water (ophthalmic grade solution pH 6.7 to 6.9).
Antioxidants: N-Acetyl-Carnosine (NAC)* 1%.
Buffers: Borate, Potassium Bicarbonate.
Preservative: Purified Benzyl Alcohol.
Please read enclosed product insert for instructions on opening tubes. (*patented by Innovative Vision Products).

Not kidding when I say that I continue to see improvement with Emmy. Tickles me pink!!! Cataracts are still visible mind you. But surely to goodness she is seeing shadows, outlines or whatever, after some seven months of using the Can-C drops. For months she saw nothing and was very frightened. It was quite a road. This weekend she made a few maneuvers (a friend was there to witness one of them in fact) that delighted me. She approached the obstacles as though to hit them but turned in ample time, which only leads me to believe that whatever the image looked like to her, it was enough to tell her she needed to change course. Break throughs seem to be gaining speed of late. Could be they taper off at some point – – – – that she will plateau so to speak. Would that be true? I rather presume that will happen. For now, she is gaining ground. Last night she walked into the run-in shelter, right past the outside wall and support posts, right past the middle divider wall (I have the run-in shelter split into two stall sections) and right to her grain bucket with no help from me whatsoever. I held my breath and then just stood there in disbelief. Was that just a lucky move or was it, again, proof of “some degree” of reversal?? My take = I will continue to administer Can-C drops! Dawn

Q. I am a vet is there a way for me to supply my patients with this product?

A: We offer professional discounts to physicians and veterinarians so that they may supply and monitor their patients. Please contact me at: robert@horsecataracts.com

Q. Will the drops cause any discomfort or stinging in my horse’s eyes?

A: Due to the optimal PH levels of this formulation there should be absolutely no stinging affects. Many owners inform us that their pets actually begin to act eager when it is time time to apply these soothing eye drops. We can therefore assume that the horses feel some relief with the application of
Can-C™ on a regular basis.

Q. Is there a need to use a syringe for injecting the solution into my horse’s eyes?

A: No, the drops are delivered directly from the vial without the need for syringes. You will want to keep your pet quiet while applying the drops and prevent him/her from shaking the drops out of the eye. Some owners find that it is easiest to lightly pinch the lower lid between thumb and forefinger creating a little pocket to apply the eye drop to, then lightly rest your hand over the face of your horse to keep him/her calm and to ensure full absorption.

Q. My horse’s cataracts are a result of diabetes. Will Can-C™ help her?

A: While diabetic induced cataracts are often more aggressive and persistent, we have found that with the consistent application of just 3 drops a day, visible improvements generally present within 6-8 weeks, depending on how mature the cataract is. As the diabetes will continue to influence your horse it is possible that the cataracts can return, we recommend a daily drop in each eye to help prevent the return of the cataract once optimal results have been achieved.

Q. I saw another N-acetylcarnosine website and they said that the preservative Benzyl Alcohol is not good, is that true?

A: Definitely not true. Benzyl alcohol has long been utilized in ocular formulations as an FDA approved preservative. In the clinical trials conducted by Innovative Vision Products, five formulations were tested with varying preservatives and sources of NAC. In the end there was one that far surpassed all expectations and parameters. Interestingly it was the formulation with the preservative benzyl alcohol in combination with a unique source and purity level of NAC. Those who are claiming that benzyl alcohol causes burning do not understand the importance of the critical pH balance of ocular formulations. It is the incorrect balance of pH that can result in burning with some ocular formulations and not the preservative. We have absolutely no complaints of burning with our product in fact quite the opposite, which is why a large percentage of our customers use Can-C™ for dry eye syndrome, contact lens use and for eye strain relief. Remember it is this patented formulation that was tested over time and proven in a clinical controlled environment to reverse cataracts and resulted in no negative side affects. Unfortunately there are a few companies who continue to make attempts to circumvent Dr. Babizhayevs patent to avoid paying royalties. Not only are they not utilizing the proprietary source of NAC which is critical to the effectiveness of this formulation, they have made changes to one or two of the excipient ingredients in their attempts to get around his patent. Again to be sure that you have purchased the approved formula look for the following statement on the label of any product you have purchased. “Approved patented by Innovative Vision Products”.

My vet recommended using these Can-C eye drops for my horse Rebel. In 3 months I have seen a 50% reduction in Rebel’s small cataract and a 60% reduction in his large cataract. It is almost as if the cataracts are melting away. Needless to say I am a happy customer. Terry