Adequan I.M. (Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan) 500 mg/5 mL

Adequan I.M. (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan) is an FDA-approved prescription intra-articular and intramuscular treatment engineered to control the signs associated with non-infectious degenerative joint disease (DJD) and carpal or hock lameness in horses. As a potent disease-modifying osteoarthritis drug (DMOAD), Adequan I.M. actively inhibits the enzymes that break down joint cartilage while stimulating the synthesis of new cartilage matrix components, helping to restore synovial fluid viscosity and protect the delicate joint structures of performance and working equines.

What Is Adequan I.M.?

Adequan I.M. is a specialized veterinary therapeutic compound formulated for parenteral administration under professional veterinary supervision.

Active Ingredient and Formulation

• Active Component: Polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG) at a concentration of 100 mg per mL (supplied in 5 mL single-dose glass vials containing a total of 500 mg PSGAG).

• Mechanism of Action: Chemically similar to the natural matrix of articular cartilage, PSGAG penetrates joint fluid and cartilage to inhibit destructive enzymes (like matrix metalloproteinases) while providing essential building blocks for cartilage repair.

What Is Adequan I.M. Used For?

Primary Veterinary Indications

• Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD): Routinely prescribed by equine veterinarians to manage and treat clinical signs of arthritis, lameness, and joint dysfunction in the carpal (knee) and hock joints of horses.

• Joint Maintenance and Recovery: Utilized in high-performance equine athletes to protect joint integrity under heavy training loads, reduce post-exercise joint inflammation, and preserve long-term soundness.

• Post-Operative Joint Care: Administered following arthroscopic joint surgery to accelerate cartilage healing and minimize scar tissue or degenerative changes.

Administration and Dosage Considerations

Route and Dosing

• Route of Administration: Administered strictly via intramuscular (I.M.) injection using sterile technique.

• Standard Regimen: The recommended treatment course consists of one 500 mg injection (5 mL) every 4 days for a total of 7 injections (a complete 28-day course).

• Veterinary Oversight: Dosage schedules and repeat treatment protocols must be determined exclusively by a licensed equine veterinarian based on the severity of joint degeneration and clinical response.

Important Safety Information

• Contraindications: Do not use in horses with known hypersensitivity to polysulfated glycosaminoglycan. Do not use in horses intended for human consumption.

• Side Effects: Adequan I.M. is exceptionally well tolerated. Transient local discomfort at the injection site can occasionally occur. Because PSGAG possesses mild anticoagulant properties, use with caution in horses with bleeding disorders or those concurrently receiving anticoagulant therapies.

• Competition Regulations: Trainers must review current governing body rules (such as FEI or USEF) regarding mandatory pre-competition withdrawal periods before administering to competing horses.

Storage and Handling

• Store at controlled room temperature between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F), with brief excursions permitted up to 30°C (86°F). Avoid freezing and protect from excessive light.

• Use single-dose vials immediately upon opening and discard any unused portion.

• Keep securely out of reach of children, unauthorized individuals, and animals at all times.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Adequan I.M. used for?

It is a prescription DMOAD utilized to treat non-infectious degenerative joint disease, arthritis, and associated lameness in horses.

What is the active ingredient?

It contains polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG) at a concentration of 100 mg/mL (500 mg total per 5 mL vial).

How is the medication administered?

It is administered via intramuscular injection, typically given as a series of seven injections spaced four days apart.

Is a prescription required?

Yes, Adequan I.M. is a professional veterinary prescription product requiring a valid diagnosis and recommendation from a licensed equine veterinarian.

Order Adequan I.M. Online

Adequan I.M. 500 mg/5 mL is available for order through our platform subject to veterinary prescription verification and compliance with local regulatory requirements. For assistance regarding stock availability, prescription upload protocols, or delivery options, please contact our customer support team.