Side Effects of Adequan for Horses

Adequan Equine is a drug used to treat arthritis in horses. It prevents cartilage-destroying enzymes from causing further arthritis damage in your horse's joints. Adequan Equine is also an anti-inflammatory and helps thicken joint fluid, relieving pain in horses with arthritis. Adequan Equine is generally a very safe drug, although it should not be used with horses that are breeding, pregnant, or lactating, or have kidney or liver disease or bleeding disorders. Side effects can include allergic reactions and problems with blood clotting.

  1. Mild allergic reactions

    • Adequan may cause an allergic reaction in some horses. Mild allergic reactions include hives and/or scratching, causing raw or bald patches. Facial swelling may also be a sign of an allergic reaction. These side effects may go away after a day or two of treatment. If they do not stop after a day or two, contact your veterinarian.

    Severe allergic reactions

    • More severe allergic reactions include diarrhea, colic, seizures, pale gums and other tissue, cold limbs or even a coma. If your horse exhibits any of these reactions, stop using Adequan and consult your vet immediately.

    Blood-related side effects

    • Adequan can also cause problems with blood clotting. If you see a bloody nose, blood in the feces, or unusually dark or sticky-looking feces, these may be caused by the Adequan. As with the other side effects, stop giving the drug right away and contact your vet.