Adequan^® Canine (Brand)

What is Adequan® Canine?
Adequan Canine is an injectable (syringes & needles sold separately) medication that helps protect the cartilage in your dog's joints and aids in the treatment of arthritis.

Who is it for?
Adequan Canine is licensed for use in dogs. It has also been used off-label in cats and rabbits.

What are the benefits?

This injectable canine arthritis care drug helps control the signs associated with non-infectious degenerative or traumatic arthritis of joints. Contains polysulfated glycosaminoglycans that the body uses to make cartilage. When injected intramuscularly, it helps promote the formation of healthy cartilage and joint fluid and supports the body's natural joint repair process. Available in injectable form only.

How does Adequan Canine work?
Adequan Canine helps maintain cartilage, the smooth covering of the ends of the bones that make up a joint. If the cartilage is worn away, the ends of the bone can become very painful. It inhibits enzymes that break down cartilage, decreases inflammation, helps produce healthy joint fluid and increases the production of cartilage.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
No injectable generic equivalents are available.

How is it given?
This medication is given by intramuscular injection. We would suggest asking your veterinarian what size needle and syringe they would recommend. Multiple injections over several weeks need to be given. Adequan Canine should not be mixed with other medications. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian.

What results can I expect?
The drug starts to work in approximately two hours and stays in the joint for about four days after each injection. The effects of the drug (visible improvement in activity level and playfulness) however are generally not apparent until after several treatments.

What form(s) does it come in?
Adequan Canine is available in injectable form only

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

Brand Name
Adequan Canine (injectable)

Pronunciation
ADD-a-kwin KAY-nine

Common Drug Name
Injectable polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG)

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Adequan® Canine?
You and your veterinarian should talk about any other options that are recommended for your arthritic pet, such as surgery, pain relievers, weight loss programs, etc.

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has a known or suspected bleeding problem, has liver or kidney disease, may be pregnant or is nursing, or if you intend to breed your dog.

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

What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, it should be given as soon as possible.

What is the most important information I should know?
Adequan Canine is designed to improve the signs associated with arthritis, but will not reverse the bony changes that may be associated with the disease. Multiple injections are necessary for maximum results.

Who should not take it?
Adequan Canine should not be used in dogs showing hypersensitivity to PSGAG or in dogs with known or suspected bleeding disorders.

Studies to establish the safety of Adequan Canine in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs (dogs nursing their young) have not been conducted.

What side effects may be seen when taking Adequan Canine?
When given as an intramuscular injection, few side effects are seen. Very rarely in dogs, you may see a decreased ability for the blood to clot, resulting in signs such as bleeding from the nose, blood in the feces, or dark and tarry stools. Consult your veterinarian if you notice any of the above side effects.

If your pet experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

How is it stored?
Store at room temperature (64 - 77°F).

What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
Toxicity is extremely rare. If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, or if you observe any unusual signs, symptoms, or behaviors, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What should I avoid when giving my pet Adequan Canine?
Consult your veterinarian before using any other medications, including vitamins and supplements, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin, etodolac (EtoGesic), deracoxib (Deramaxx), carprofen (Rimadyl), or meloxicam (Metacam), and other drugs affecting blood clotting such as heparin or warfarin, since interactions may occur.

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.