Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycans
(PSGAG), injectable
  (Adequan, Adequan IA, Adequan IM)

Common Drug Name: Polysulfated glycosaminoglycans PSGAG

Common Brand Names: Adequan IA (for injection into the joint, i.e., intra-articular) Adequan IM (for injection into the muscle) Generic products are not available.

Storage: Store at room temperature (up to 77°F) in a tight, light resistant, childproof container.

Uses: Polysulfated glycosaminoglycans are used in the treatment of arthritis/degenerative joint disease (not caused by infections) or joint injury with associated lameness.

Dose and Administration: Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian. The IM form is given by intramuscular (into the muscle) injection. Veterinarians may inject the IA form directly into the joint (intra-articular). Injections are given in a series, and generally repeated every 3-5 days. Follow your veterinarian’s directions as to the correct interval for your horse, and how many injections should be given. Do not mix this medication with other drugs or chemicals. If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give 2 doses at once. This medication should only be given to the horse for whom it was prescribed.

Possible Side Effects: With IM injection, few side effects are seen. With intra-articular injection, may see joint pain, swelling, and lameness, and the joint may be warm or hot to the touch. Rarely, infection of the joint may also occur, which is very serious – even life threatening. Consult your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of the above side effects. If your horse experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Precautions: Not for use in horses hypersensitive (allergic) to polysulfated glycosaminoglycans or other ingredients in the product. Do not use the intra-articular (IA) form in horses with joint infections. Do not use in joints where the skin has been recently fired or blistered, or has had counterirritants applied. The safety of polysulfated glycosaminoglycans in pregnant or lactating horses has not been determined. Do not use in horses intended for breeding. Consult with your veterinarian regarding the physical examinations and laboratory testing necessary prior to and during treatment with polysulfated glycosaminoglycans.

Drug, Food, and Test Interactions: Notify your veterinarian of any other medications, including vitamins and supplements, your horse is taking while receiving polysulfated glycosaminoglycans. The use of polysulfated glycosaminoglycans with steroids (e.g., prednisone or dexamethasone) or nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as aspirin, phenylbutazone, or flunixin (Banamine) is not recommended as they may mask signs of joint infection. Use caution if giving to a horse also being treated with anticoagulants, such as heparin or warfarin.

Withdrawal Times: Consult your veterinarian and event officials before using polysulfated glycosaminoglycans or any other medication in a performance horse. Not for use in horses intended for food.

Signs of Toxicity/Overdose: May see joint pain and swelling with the intra-articular (IA) form. If you know or suspect your horse has had an overdose, or if you observe any of these signs in your horse, contact your veterinarian immediately. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children and animals.  

** This information may not cover all possible uses, directions, side effects, precautions, allergic reactions, drug interactions, or withdrawal times.  Always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the treatment of your pet.

If you have questions about this medication, please call our Pharmacy at (877) 815-6337 for a consultation