Adequan Canine

How to Order Prescriptions

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Description

Adequan® Canine is an FDA-approved prescription injectable medication containing polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG) for the control of signs associated with non-infectious degenerative and/or traumatic arthritis of canine synovial joints. Unlike oral joint supplements that provide nutritional support, Adequan Canine is classified as a disease-modifying osteoarthritis drug (DMOAD) and is designed to help manage osteoarthritis as part of a comprehensive treatment plan developed by your veterinarian.

Following intramuscular injection, polysulfated glycosaminoglycan rapidly reaches the synovial fluid and cartilage, where it helps support healthy joint function. Laboratory studies have shown PSGAG may help protect cartilage from degradation while supporting the production of cartilage matrix components and synovial fluid. Although the exact mechanism of action in canine joints has not been fully established, Adequan Canine has demonstrated clinical benefit in dogs with osteoarthritis.

Adequan Canine is commonly used early in the course of osteoarthritis and may be repeated when clinical signs recur, based on your veterinarian's recommendation.

Uses & Benefits

• FDA-approved for dogs
• Controls signs associated with non-infectious degenerative and traumatic arthritis
• Disease-Modifying Osteoarthritis Drug (DMOAD)
• Helps support healthy joint cartilage
• Helps maintain normal joint lubrication
• Supports improved mobility and joint function
• Administered by intramuscular injection
• May be repeated under veterinary supervision
• Can be incorporated into a multimodal osteoarthritis management program

How It Works

Adequan Canine contains polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG), a semi-synthetic compound structurally similar to naturally occurring components of cartilage.

Following intramuscular injection, PSGAG is rapidly distributed into synovial fluid and joint cartilage. Laboratory studies have demonstrated that PSGAG may:

Inhibit certain enzymes involved in cartilage breakdown
Support the production of proteoglycans and collagen
Promote hyaluronic acid synthesis within joints
Help maintain normal cartilage structure and joint lubrication

These actions help support healthy joint function in dogs with osteoarthritis. Although the exact mechanism of action has not been fully established, Adequan Canine is classified as a disease-modifying osteoarthritis drug (DMOAD).

Indications

Adequan® Canine is indicated for the:

Control of signs associated with non-infectious degenerative arthritis of canine synovial joints
Control of signs associated with traumatic arthritis of canine synovial joints
Management of canine osteoarthritis under veterinary supervision

For use in dogs only.

Clinical Studies:
In a controlled clinical field study involving dogs with radiographically confirmed degenerative and/or traumatic arthritis, dogs receiving Adequan® Canine twice weekly for four weeks demonstrated statistically significant improvements in range of motion and overall orthopedic scores compared to placebo-treated dogs.

Ingredients

Active Ingredients:

Each mL Contains
Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG) — 100 mg
Each 5 mL vial contains:
500 mg PSGAG

Inactive Ingredients:

Benzyl Alcohol (Preservative)

Refer to the manufacturer's package insert for complete formulation information.

Directions

Use only as directed by your veterinarian.

Administer by intramuscular (IM) injection only.

Recommended Dose:

• 2 mg per lb body weight
• Equivalent to 0.02 mL per lb
• Or 1 mL per 50 lb
• Treatment Schedule
• Twice weekly
• Up to 4 weeks
• Maximum of 8 injections

Do not exceed the recommended dosage.

Do not mix Adequan Canine with other injectable medications.

Weight & Dosage 

Dog Weight	Dose
25 lb	0.5 mL
50 lb	1 mL
75 lb	1.5 mL
100 lb	2 mL

Treatment is administered twice weekly for four weeks (maximum of eight injections).
Additional treatment cycles may be recommended by your veterinarian if clinical signs recur.

Warnings

• Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.
• For use in dogs only.
• For animal use only.
• Not for use in humans.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Administer by intramuscular injection only.
• Do not administer intravenously, subcutaneously, or intra-articularly.

Cautions

Do not use in dogs with known hypersensitivity to polysulfated glycosaminoglycan.
Use with caution in dogs with bleeding disorders, kidney disease, liver disease, or thrombocytopenia.
The safety of use in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs has not been established.
Inform your veterinarian of all medications and supplements your dog is receiving before treatment.

Possible Side Effects

In clinical studies, adverse reactions were uncommon and generally mild and self-limiting. Reported reactions included:

• Temporary pain at the injection site
• Diarrhea
• Abnormal bleeding

Following commercial use, additional adverse events have been reported, including:

• Vomiting
• Decreased appetite
• Lethargy or depression
• Diarrhea

Rare reports of more serious adverse events, including death, have been received following commercial use; however, a direct relationship to Adequan® Canine has not been established in every case.

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog develops severe bleeding, persistent vomiting or diarrhea, difficulty breathing, collapse, or other concerning signs following treatment.

Precautions

Use sterile injection technique.
Monitor your dog throughout treatment.
Follow your veterinarian's dosing schedule carefully.
Periodic monitoring may be recommended for dogs receiving repeated treatment cycles.
Do not exceed the recommended dose unless directed by your veterinarian.

Storage

Store at 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
Excursions between 59°F and 86°F (15°C to 30°C) are permitted.
Avoid prolonged exposure above 104°F (40°C).
Use within 28 days after the vial is first punctured.
Do not puncture the vial more than 10 times.