Arthritis and joint problems are unfortunately very common in dogs, affecting their ability to move comfortably and reducing their overall quality of life. If your veterinarian has diagnosed your dog with arthritis, they may have prescribed Adequan Canine.
Adequan Canine is an injectable prescription medication used to treat non-infectious arthritis in dogs. This guide will give you a comprehensive overview of the proper Adequan dogs dosage, how it’s administered, and important safety considerations to keep in mind.
Understanding Adequan Canine
Adequan Canine, available only with a prescription from your veterinarian, is used to treat arthritis in dogs.
What is Adequan Canine?
The active ingredient in Adequan Canine is polysulfated glycosaminoglycan, or PSGAG, which protects cartilage, the spongy substance that cushions joints. It’s typically found in a concentration of 100 mg/mL.
How does it work?
Adequan Canine inhibits the breakdown of cartilage and reduces inflammation in the joint. It also helps the dog’s body produce more joint fluid, which eases pain and makes it easier to move the affected joint.
Adequan dosage and administration for dogs
If your vet has prescribed Adequan for your dog, you’ll want to know the correct dosage and how to administer the medication.
Recommended dosage
- The standard dosage is 4.4 mg/kg (2 mg/lb) of body weight.
- The usual schedule is twice a week for up to four weeks. Your dog will receive a maximum of eight injections.
How to administer Adequan
Adequan is given as an intramuscular injection.
It’s important to learn the right injection technique to avoid complications. Talk with your veterinarian about getting some training on how to give the injection.
Important considerations
- Don’t give your dog more than the recommended dose.
- Don’t give Adequan for longer than the recommended time.
- Make sure the injection isn’t given into a blood vessel.
Precautions, side effects, and contraindications
As with any medication, there are potential side effects and situations in which Adequan Canine should be used with caution or avoided altogether.
Common side effects
Side effects aren’t common, but some dogs may experience vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite. Other possible side effects include swelling, inflammation, or pain in the joints.
Contraindications
Adequan Canine shouldn’t be used in dogs who are hypersensitive to PSGAG (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan) or any other ingredient in the medication. If your dog has a bleeding disorder or problems with kidney or liver function, use caution. It’s also best to avoid using Adequan Canine if your dog has an infection or is about to have surgery, as the medication can have a blood-thinning effect.
Drug interactions
Always talk to your vet before giving your dog Adequan Canine if they’re taking other medications. Be particularly cautious if your dog is taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Warnings
Adequan Canine is for veterinary use only, and like all medications, it should be kept out of the reach of children.
How to store and handle Adequan
- Keep Adequan at room temperature — ideally between 64°F and 77°F (18-25°C).
- Don’t mix Adequan with other medications or solutions. Give it to your dog as is.
In Conclusion
Adequan Canine can be a real game-changer for dogs suffering from the pain and reduced mobility of arthritis, significantly improving their overall quality of life.
But remember, this information is for educational purposes only. It’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis, a personalized treatment plan, and ongoing monitoring of your dog’s condition.
And finally, always follow your vet’s instructions carefully regarding the Adequan dosage and treatment schedule. Completing the full course of treatment is essential to prevent relapses or the development of resistance.