GOOD OL' CLIIFFIE MILLER

The National Horseracing Authority confirms that at an Inquiry held at its offices in Johannesburg on Tuesday, 15 October 2013 Trainer W G C (Cliffie) Miller was charged with a contravention of Rule 73.2.4.

He was the trainer responsible for the horse ISLAND MISCHIEF, which ran in and collapsed and died during the running of the 6th race run at the Flamingo Park Racecourse on 20 May 2013, after which a blood specimen taken from that horse disclosed upon analysis the presence of Methylprednisolone, which is a prohibited substance in terms of the Rules of The National Horseracing Authority.

Trainer Miller pleaded guilty to the charge, and was found guilty of the charge.

The Inquiry Board imposed a penalty of a fine of R40 000,00.

Trainer Miller has the right of appeal against the penalty imposed.

Very Leniant...

No mention of Visser yet?

What if the jockey riding this horse ended up being killed in the fall. Would Miller be on murder charges ? Ridiculous penalty imposed.

He will probably appeal the penalty as well (td)

is he still the RA rep? What a disgrace and to think i actually liked him as a trainer

boys what is Methylprednisolone

Perhaps to clear the lungs of a horse? Is it not a steroid?

Methylprednisolone is a synthesized adrenal steroid. It is a 6-methyl derivative of prednisolone and exceeds prenisolone in anti-inflammatory potency. It offers an advantage over older corticosteroids with the use of lower doses.

Methylprednisolone is available in several formulas including methylprednisolone sodium succinate and methylprednisolone acetate.
Usage

Methylprednisolone is given systemically to decrease inflammatory and immune responses in horses. It may also be injected into joints to decrease local inflammation by stabilizing cell membranes, altering white blood cells, and influencing chemical responses to inflammation including reduction of prostaglandin production.

Methylprednisolone is also used systemically in high doses in emergencies for anaphylactic reactions, spinal cord trauma, or shock.

In addition, it is used in lower doses to treat allergic reactions such as hives, itching, heaves and arthritis, and may be used topically to treat certain conditions of the skin and eyes.

and side affects, heart attack??

Side Effects

Systemic corticosteroids can mask signs of infection and suppress the immune response. Horses receiving systemic corticosteroids may be more susceptible to bacterial or viral infections.

While concerns have been raised about possible links between corticosteroid use and laminitis, current data establishing a direct correlation is lacking.

Increased urination, increased water consumption, and muscle wasting can occur with prolonged corticosteroid use.

Corticosteroids can cause or worsen gastric ulcers.
Precautions

When treatment is to be withdrawn after prolonged use, the dose should be reduced gradually to prevent the symptoms of corticosteroid insufficiency and reduce the risk of a flare-up of the disease being treated.

Before injection into any joint, an appropriate clinical work up including radiographs should be done.

Corticosteroids should be avoided in young foals and during pregnancy and lactation unless the benefits outweigh the risks.

Methylprednisolone is FDA approved for use in horses and is a prescription drug restricted to use by or on the lawful written or oral order of a licensed veterinarian.

Some corticosteroids are commonly used in competition horses, but are forbidden in any drug-free competition. It is important to check with the individual regulatory group regarding use in competition horses.
Interactions

Corticosteroids increase risk of electrolyte imbalances due to calcium and potassium losses when diuretics such as furosemide are given.

The risk of gastrointestinal ulcers may be increased if corticosteroids and NSAIDs are given at the same time.

Corticosteroids should not be given intravenously with fluids containing calcium.
Overdose

Immediately call your veterinarian. Read and follow manufacturer's directions carefully.

Who gives the horse the injection is what i wanna know? If it's the vet, then surely he/she knows this may not be administered or is it a case of the meds not been out of the horses system yet.....raced too early?

Yes, would really like to know what's happening regarding the Visser story? Surely this cannot be swept under the carpet?