Adequan Canine Review – Does this Product Relieves Arthritis Pain?

Adequan® Canine: Overview

Adequan®Canine is a product for canine arthritis and claims to stand out from other products currently on the market. It claims to not only reduce inflammation and pain but helps to prevent the wear of joint cartilage. It is a prescription-only, water based, intramuscular drug. It uses the active ingredient PSGAG (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan), described as a disease modifying osteoarthritis drug inhibiting the catabolic enzymes involved in degenerative joint disease helping to slow down cartilage wear.

Adequan® Canine: Details

Compared to NSAIDs, corticosteroids and other products on the market which only relive pain and inflammation, the active ingredient in Adequan®Canine allows fast and direct access to the joint where it boosts cartilage metabolism, slows down cartilage wear and facilitates the joint repair process. It also claims to renew joint fluid helping to lubricate, nourish and clean the cartilage. It works within 2 hours and lasts up to 3 days and improvement should be seen in 4 weeks.

Good about Adequan® Canine

• Unlike most other nutritional products, Adequan is FDA approved.
• Works within 2 hours and lasts up to 3 days – improvement should be seen in 4 weeks.
• Clinical studies have been carried out for the use of Adequan in dogs with lameness. Results show statistical improvement in range of motion and total orthopedic scores for those using Adequen as compared to placebo treated dogs.
• Intramuscular administration ensures direct fast acting treatment.

Bad about Adequan® Canine

• Adequan is only available from prescription and requires an intramuscular injection 2 to 4 times a week from a licensed veterinarian.
• Licensed veterinarians can buy the product from a variety of websites. Costs vary but the product can be bought for approximately $91.00 for a pack of two 5ml vial.
• Cannot be used in dogs with hypersensitivity to PSGAG, dogs with suspected bleeding disorders and there are no studies to show safety of for breeding, pregnant or lactating dogs.
• Use with caution in dogs with renal or hepatic impairment.
• No testimonials on the website.
• For US residents only.

Conclusion

Novartis is a well known and trusted manufacturer and the FDA approval of this product and available results from clinical studies, makes this a very viable treatment for arthritis in dogs. It is unique in how it addresses improvement of cartilage wear rather than solely addressing inflammation and pain relief like its competitors. However as the product information suggests this product may not be suitable for all dogs and a closely monitored treatment plan is required. The amount of required injections and additional fees for administration by your veterinarian may prove costly. It would be advised to contact your local veterinarian for treatment plan costs.