Injectable supplements for horses

 



Injectable supplements for horses

Injectable supplements are a convenient and effective way to support a horse's health, especially when quick absorption is needed. They are commonly used to address deficiencies, boost immune function, improve joint health, or enhance overall performance. Unlike oral supplements, injections bypass the digestive system, ensuring faster and more targeted delivery of nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

Always consult with a veterinarian before administering injectable supplements to ensure proper dosage and suitability for your horse's specific needs. When used appropriately, injectable supplements can be a valuable tool in maintaining your horse’s health and optimizing their performance.

Below are some of the most common (non-steroidal) injectable supplements used to treat active arthritis in horses and potentially slow its development. These medications vary in cost, method of administration, and approved uses.

1. Adequan

  • Active Ingredient: Polysulfated Glucosaminoglycan (PSGAG)
  • FDA Approval: Yes, for intra-muscular and intra-articular use in horses
  • Mechanism: Reduces inflammatory mediators within the joint and helps maintain healthy cartilage.
  • Administration:
    • Initial loading dose: 5-7 treatments
    • Follow-up: Once monthly or every 6 months
    • Alternative: 7 treatments (4-7 days apart) as a loading dose
Figure 1: Molecular structure of Adequan


Figure 2: Intra-articular Adequan

2. Pentosan

  • Active Ingredient: Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium (PPS)
  • Notes:
    • Relatively new in the US
    • Structurally distinct from Adequan (see Figures 1 & 3)
    • Used in humans to treat bladder pain (cystitis); research suggests benefits for arthritis
  • Availability: Sold through compounding labs as a generic product
  • Administration:
    • Initial loading dose: 5 injections, 1 week apart
    • Maintenance: 1-2 times per month
Figure 3: Molecular structure of PPS
Figure 4: Generic Pentosan

3. PentAussie

  • FDA Approved & Licensed in the US
  • Contains: Pentosan and N-acetyl glucosamine (a PSGAG similar but slightly different from Adequan)
  • Indications: Approved for post-surgical lavage; considered "off-label" for IM injections
  • Note:
Figure 5: PentAussie

4. Legend

  • Contains: Hyaluronate Sodium (non-sulfated glycosaminoglycan)
  • Role: A normal joint fluid component that helps regulate inflammation
  • Administration: Typically IV, but also injected directly into the joint
  • Frequency: Varies from before competition to monthly
Figure 6: Legend

5. Polyglycan

  • Contains: Hyaluronate, N-acetyl glucosamine, and chondroitin sulfate (active in Cosequin)
  • Notes: Approved for use in horses but NOT for intravenous administration
  • Administration: Several days before competition and/or monthly
Figure 7: Composition of Polyglycan
Figure 8: Polyglycan

Important Considerations:

  • There is much more to consider when choosing an injectable supplement for your horse.
  • These are general guidelines I recommend:

My Recommendations:

  1. Start early: Once a horse is old enough to begin training, I suggest administering an injectable supplement monthly throughout their career. These are likely superior to oral options.
  2. Cost-effective options: Intra-muscular injections are generally less expensive and can often be administered at the barn by the owner or barn manager. I recommend starting with Adequan, Pentosan, or PentAussie.
  3. For heavy competition or advanced osteoarthritis: Consider Polyglycan as an "add-on" supplement.
  4. Long-term investment: The money spent on monthly injectable supplements is one of the best investments you can make for your horse's longevity—second only to proper farrier care and competent veterinary support!

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