Horse Owner FAQs

What is Adequan^® I.M.?

Adequan^® I.M. (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan) is the only FDA-Approved equine intramuscular PSGAG prescription available. It is recommended for intramuscular treatment of non-infectious degenerative and/or traumatic joint dysfunction and associated lameness of the carpal and hock joints in horses.¹

When should Adequan^® I.M. be used?

Adequan^® I.M. (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan) is recommended for the intramuscular treatment of non-infectious degenerative and/or traumatic joint dysfunction and associated lameness of the carpal and hock joints in horses.¹

How does Adequan^® I.M. work?

As the only PSGAG joint prescription, Adequan^® I.M. has a mode of action that helps treat degenerative joint disease (DJD) in multiple ways to keep joints moving. It is proven to: ^1,2

• Relieve lameness caused by swelling and inflammation associated with joint disease
• Restore synovial lubrication that facilitates movement and reduces local inflammation
• Repair cartilage and rapidly aid in the production of new cartilage
• Reverse the disease cycle that leads to the loss of cartilage components by inhibiting harmful enzymes that attack cartilage and synovial fluid

Ask your veterinarian if Adequan^® I.M. is the right choice for your horse.

What is equine DJD?

Equine DJD, commonly referred to as osteoarthritis (or OA) can cause lameness in horses of all breeds and ages. This painful disease is characterized by progressive deterioration of the articular cartilage, which is accompanied by changes in bone and soft tissues of the joint.³

What clinical signs may my horse have with DJD? Is there a specific equine conformation type that may be more likely to develop non-infectious DJD? (For example, a horse that toes out, or a horse with straight hocks, etc.)

Conformation can greatly influence the degree of wear and tear that a joint undergoes. Conformational abnormalities alter the forces applied to a joint and can potentially lead to joint instability, injury and DJD. The mature equine athlete that is performing well has likely adapted to whatever conformation issues exist. However, if you are considering purchasing a young, unproven horse, avoiding horses with significant conformational flaws will increase the likelihood of the chosen horse staying sound. In young foals and growing horses, conformational abnormalities should be addressed as early as possible through proper nutrition, balanced farriery, adequate training and muscle development, and in some cases, surgical intervention.

With respect to different disciplines, would a hunter-jumper or eventer be more susceptible to DJD than a cutting or reining horse?

Any horse can develop DJD regardless of age, breed or discipline. However, the horse’s discipline may predispose the horse to developing DJD in particular joints. For example, cutting or reining horses put significant stress on their hocks and stifles, and these can be locations where DJD occurs more frequently; whereas hunters will frequently experience more front limb lameness, such as in the coffin or fetlock joints. It is important to understand that DJD can occur within any joint that consistently experiences wear and tear, known as “use trauma,” and can occur in any performance horse, regardless of discipline.

How fast does Adequan^® I.M. work?

It reaches the joint within 2 hours.² Based on dose titration studies, clinical improvement may be observed by the fourth injection⁴. Consult your veterinarian if you have any questions.

Are oral glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate products suggested to be utilized while using Adequan^® I.M.?

Adequan^® I.M. is an FDA-approved drug for the treatment of DJD and traumatic joint dysfunction. As required by FDA, safety and efficacy studies were conducted on Adequan^® I.M. without the concomitant use of additional products. Adequan^® I.M. successfully achieved FDA-approval without use of additional oral joint health (OJS) products.¹

Are there age or breed restrictions for Adequan^® I.M.?

There are no age or breed restrictions.¹

Is Adequan^® I.M. approved for pregnant or lactating mares, or in breeding stallions?

No. The safe use of Adequan^® I.M. in horses used for breeding purposes, during pregnancy, or in lactating mares has not been evaluated. Please contact your prescribing veterinarian for assistance.¹

Is Adequan^® I.M. approved for use in foals, minis, drafts, or aged horses?

No. Adequan^® I.M. has not been studied for safety or efficacy in foals, minis, drafts, or aged horses.¹ Please contact your prescribing veterinarian for assistance.

Is there an Adequan^® product for dogs?



What is the difference between FDA-approved prescription Adequan^® I.M. and over-the-counter products?

There are many supplements, medical devices and over-the-counter products making claims similar to Adequan^® I.M. However, most of these products are only supported by testimonial statements and do not have the structured and qualified product testing and trials Adequan^® I.M. completed to obtain FDA-approval.

Are there any contraindications?

There are no known contraindications to the use of intramuscular Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan. Do not use in horses showing a hypersensitivity to PSGAG.¹

Are there precautions for the use of Adequan^® I.M.?

The safety of Adequan^® I.M. in horses used for breeding purposes, during pregnancy, or in lactating mares has not been evaluated.¹

Are there any warnings for Adequan^® I.M.?

Adequan^® I.M. should not be used in horses intended for human consumption. Not for use in humans. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.¹

How can I purchase Adequan^® I.M.?

Since this is a prescription product, horse owners must purchase though a licensed veterinarian. Your veterinarian can help you discover if Adequan^® I.M. is appropriate for your horse. CAUTION: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.

Who can I call with questions about Adequan^® I.M.?