Legend® Injectable (Brand)

What is Legend®?
Legend is an injectable medication is used to treat inflammation of the lining of the joint not associated with infections.

Who is it for?
Legend is for horses.

What are the benefits?

How does Legend work?
Legend is an injectable form of hyaluronate. Hyaluronate occurs normally in the body and is found in high concentrations in joint fluid. The hyaluronate in Legend is thought to help regulate cells in the joint that would increase inflammation. When injected into the joint, hyaluronate helps the lining of the joint to heal and helps to increase the thickness of the joint fluid. This joint fluid lubricates and cushions the joint and helps protect the joint lining.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
No, but there are other brand names for hyaluronate sodium.

How is it given?
Legend is an injectable medication that should only be administered by a veterinarian. The various commercial products have different dosing information, so the manufacturer's directions must be followed carefully.

This medication should only be given to the horse for whom it was prescribed.

What results can I expect?
Legend can help reduce the pain and inflammation in non-infected joints. Some results may be seen after one injection, but up to three treatments may need to be given, generally a week apart. It is not a cure for arthritis and is not labeled for use long-term.

What form(s) does it come in?
This medication comes in an injectable liquid form

Please click on "More Information" for possible drug and food interactions with this medication.

Pronunciation
LEH-jend

Common Drug Name
Hyaluronate, hyaluronic acid

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Legend for my horse?
Talk to your veterinarian about the benefits and any risks regarding the use of Legend in your horse. Discuss other therapies that may be beneficial for your horse.

Tell your veterinarian if your horse is used for breeding or could be pregnant.

Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your horse is taking, and also if your horse has had any reactions to previous medications.

What should I do if I miss a dose?
Contact your veterinarian about the dosing schedule.

What is the most important information I should know?
Legend should only be given by a veterinarian. It is extremely important that no infection be introduced into the joint at the time of the injection. Legend may only be part of the therapy for your horse - follow all of your veterinarian's recommendations regarding other supplements, exercise, application of heat or cold, etc.

Who should not take it?
Legend is not for use in horses hypersensitive (allergic) to any of the components of an injectable hyaluronate product. Do not use in joints where the skin has been recently fired or blistered, or has had counterirritants applied. The safety of injectable hyaluronate in breeding animals has not been determined.

This medication should only be given to the pet for which it was prescribed.

What side effects may be seen when taking Legend?
You may see local reactions including increased warmth or swelling at the site of injection. Consult your veterinarian if you notice any of these side effects. These effects usually disappear in 24-96 hours. 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.

How is it stored?
Store in a tight, light-resistant, childproof container. Keep out of the reach of children and pets. Store at room temperature or refrigerate according to the manufacturer's directions. Protect from freezing.

What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
No effects of an overdose have been identified.

What should I avoid when giving my horse Legend?
Notify your veterinarian of any other medications, including vitamins and supplements, your horse is taking while receiving hyaluronate injections. No drug or food interactions have been identified, though the risk of side effects may increase if used with other medications.

Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the Patient Information Sheet on this medication.