What is Adequan?

How it works:
Adequan inhibits enzymes that break down cartilage within your dog’s or horse’s joints. It reduces inflammation and increases the thickness of joint (synovial) fluid.

Cautions:
Do not give this medication to breeding, pregnant, or lactating animals. Use with caution in animals with kidney or liver disease, or bleeding disorders.

What is the most important information I should know about Adequan:
Adequan is a prescription medication used in dogs and horses to control signs associated with degenerative or traumatic arthritis. Adequan Canine 100mg/ml is available by prescription in a box containing 2 x 5 ml vials. The usual dose in dogs is 2mg per lb given by intramuscular injection only, twice a week for up to 4 weeks. Adequan Equine 500mg/5ml is available by prescription in a box containing 7 x 5ml ampoules. The usual dose in horses is 500mg given by intramuscular injection every 4 days for 28 days. Do not mix this medication with other drugs or chemicals.
 
What is Adequan:
Adequan belongs to a unique class of drugs called Disease-Modifying Osteoarthritis Drugs (DMOAD). It is an injectable polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG) and is the only FDA approved product of its type. Adequan has been clinically shown to help treat the disease while giving relief from pain. It modifies the disease cycle, stimulates cartilage repair processes and diminishes joint damage while reducing the pain caused by osteoarthritis.
 
What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Adequan:
Tell your veterinarian if your dog or horse has any known or suspected bleeding disorders. Tell your veterinarian if your dog or horse has any liver or kidney disease. Tell your veterinarian if your dog or horse is breeding, pregnant or lactating.
 
How should this medication be given:
Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. Adequan is given by intramuscular (IM, into the muscle) injection. If you do not understand the directions ask the pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian. Store Adequan at room temperature (64º-77º F). Keep this medication out of the reach of children and pets.
 
What happens if I miss giving a dose:
Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and give the next one as directed. Do not give a double dose of the medication.
 
What happens if I give an overdose:
Overdose is extremely rare. Symptoms that may indicate toxicity include joint pain, swelling and lameness.
 
What should I avoid while giving Adequan:
Do not give this medication to breeding, pregnant or lactating animals. Use with caution in animals with kidney or liver disease, or blood clotting or coagulation disorders.
 
What are the possible side effects of Adequan:
Few side effects are seen following Intramuscular injection. Stop giving Adequan and seek emergency veterinary medical attention if an allergic reaction (facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma) should occur. Bleeding from the nose, blood in the feces, or dark and tarry stools may indicate a decreased ability of blood to clot. Contact your veterinarian if you notice these symptoms. Other side effects may also occur. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effects that seem unusual or bothersome to the animal.
 
What other drugs will affect Adequan:
Consult your veterinarian before using any other prescription or over the counter medicines including vitamins and supplements.
 
Where can I get more information:
Your pharmacist has additional information about Adequan Canine and Adequan Equine written for health professionals that you may read.

Other Ingredients:
Sodium hydroxide and/or hydrochloric acid added when necessary to adjust pH. Sodium Chloride may be added to adjust tonicity