Product
Info
Adequan
is an injectable solution used to alleviate symptoms associated with
arthritis in dogs. The product comes in a package with two 5ml vials.
What
the product cures
The
solution helps improve symptoms caused by osteoarthritis as well as
arthritis resulting from trauma. It is also commonly prescribed after
orthopedic surgery, in order to reduce pain/inflammation and allow
for a comfortable healing process.
Pet
Symptoms
 |
Adequan
Canine 100mg/ml x 5ml Vial
|
Osteoarthritis,
also referred to as DJD (degenerative joint disease), is when the
joint cartilage deteriorates progressively. Arthritis is defined as
joint inflammation, which can be caused by trauma, wear and tear,
etc., whereas osteoarthritis refers to a type of arthritis that is
chronic and causes degeneration of the cartilage in the joints.
Canine
arthritis can cause a wide range of symptoms, with the most common
being:
- Lowered Activity Levels
- Abnormal Gait (stiffness, limping, etc.)
- Increased symptoms after exercise, during cold climates, or after being inactive for some time.
- Joint Inflammation
- Joint sensitivity upon touch, which can sometimes be displayed in an aggressive manner.
- Decreased Joint Flexibility
- Unwillingness to go upstairs, run, or carry out other tasks normally done on a regular basis.
While
there is no cure for arthritis, there is medical treatment available
that helps affected dogs get relief and slows down the progression of
the disease. Feeding a healthy diet, providing adequate exercise, and
maintaining your pet at an ideal weight can also help minimize
symptoms caused by arthritis.
Pet
Ailments
The
cause of osteoarthritis is unknown, but there several primary factors
that are known to lead to the development of the condition. Some of
these ailments include; injury or trauma, orthopedic birth defects
(hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, etc.), joint dislocation,
osteochondritis dissecans (abnormal development of cartilage and
bone), loose joints, obesity, diabetes, infection of the joints,
autoimmune diseases affecting the joints, and fractures. Large breed
dogs that are injured during the puppy phase can also develop the
condition as an adult, as they are still growing and proper healing
may not take place.
Pets
with Ailments
Relative
info on breed most associated with this ailment
Arthritis
most commonly affects older dogs, as a result of wear and tear or
overusing the joints, but there are also many dog breeds that are
genetically predisposed to the condition. Large dog breeds in
particular, such as Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and German
Shepherds are prone to developing arthritis. Other breeds that have a
correlation with the disease include; Pugs, Mastiffs, Spaniels, Great
Danes, Rottweilers, New Foundlands, Old English Sheepdogs,
Dachshunds, and St. Bernards.
Questions
for the vet & product
1.
What should I talk about with my vet before starting my dog on
Adequan?
Alert
your vet of any bleeding, renal, or liver disorders that your dog may
have. You should also let him or her know if your dog is nursing,
pregnant, or in the process of becoming pregnant.
2.
What procedure should I follow if my dog misses a dose?
The
skipped dose should be administered right away, except for when the
next dose is almost needed, in which case it should be given as
scheduled. Giving a double dose to make up for the missed one is NOT
recommended.
3.
What should I do in case of an accidental overdose?
Overdoses
caused by Adequan are not common; however, toxicity can result in
symptoms such as; painful joints, inflammation, and an abnormal gait.
If you suspect these symptoms may be caused by an overdose, consult
your vet immediately.
4.
Is there anything that should be avoided while my pet is on Adequan?
Ask
your vet before giving your dog any additional medication or
supplements, even if they are not by prescription.
5.
What side effects can Adequan cause?
Side
effects have not been commonly reported with Adequan. However, there
is still a risk of side effects or an allergic reaction, as there is
with all medication. Adequan should be stopped immediately and
emergency veterinary help should be sought if your dog shows signs of
an allergic reaction such as; swollen face, rash, itchiness,
diarrhea, vomiting, tremors, pale mucous membranes, and shock. Nose
bleeds and bloody/tarry bowel movements may also indicate a serious
side effect which inhibits the body’s ability to clot, and should
be brought to your vet’s attention as soon as possible. Speak with
your vet about any other abnormalities in your pet that you believe
may be caused by the medication.
How
it Works
Arthritis
is caused by enzymes that destroy the cartilage in the joints.
Adequan works by stopping these enzymes from doing further damage, as
well as reducing inflammation and thickening the synovial fluid that
helps protect the joints.
Directions
for use
Adequan
is available on a prescription-only basis and should be administered
as indicated by your vet.
Dosage
and administration: It
is an intramuscular injectable solution, prescribed at a dosage of
2mg per pound, two times a week for a maximum of 4 weeks (not to
exceed 8 injections in a month).
Ingredients
Adequan
contains water, as well as 100mg of Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan
and 0.9% v/v of benzyl alcohol for every ml. Water, sodium hydroxide,
and hydrochloric acid may also be used as ingredients.
Product
Cautions
Alert
your vet of any bleeding, renal, or liver disorders that your dog may
have before starting him/her on Adequan.
Let
your vet know if your dog is nursing, pregnant, or in the process of
becoming pregnant before beginning medication.
Avoid
medication in canines sensitive to Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan or
any other ingredient in the drug.
Adequan
should NOT be mixed with other medication or chemicals.
Seek
professional veterinary help if you are not familiar or comfortable
with giving intramuscular injections to your dog.
The
medication should only be administered to the pet it was prescribed
for.
PHYSICAL
OR CHEMICAL HAZARDS:
Keep
in a safe place, where it is out of reach for children and pets.
FIRST
AID:
If
swallowed: Call
poison control immediately for professional help in the event that
the medication is swallowed. If the person is awake and can swallow
normally, water can be given. Vomiting should not be induced, unless
directed by a doctor from a poison control center. Do not give
anything by mouth to individuals that are not conscious.
If
in eyes: Irritation
may occur. Flush the eyes right away with water for at least 15
minutes. Consult a physician for further help.
If
on skin: Irritation
may occur. Remove soiled clothing, and use soap and water to wash the
area that came into contact with the medication.
Storage
& Disposal
Storage:
Store
at room temperature, no more than 25 degrees Celsius.
Disposal:
Avoid
mixing with other substances. Contact your local disposal department
for information on how to dispose of the medication or empty
container.
Brand
vs. generic comparison: There
currently is not a generic version of Adequan available.