Adequan Canine (Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan) is a prescription medication used to treat non-infectious, degenerative, and/or traumatic arthritis (osteoarthritis) in dogs. Osteoarthritis is a progressive and painful joint disease characterized by the loss of cartilage, which cushions the bones in a joint. The active ingredient in Adequan Canine is Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan. Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan belongs to a class of medications known as disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs (DMOAD). It works by targeting the underlying causes of joint degradation. Adequan proactively treats the disease itself, not just the symptoms, by helping to protect and restore cartilage, reduce inflammation, and improve joint fluid lubrication.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Adequan Canine from Canada, manufactured by American Regent, in strengths of 100 mg/ml vials. The generic Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan is currently unavailable (at this pharmacy).
Seek medical attention immediately if your dog exhibits any of these signs or experiences an allergic reaction while using Adequan Canine. The most common side effects of Adequan Canine may include the following:
• Appetite loss;
• Lethargy;
• Mild diarrhea;
• Pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site
Contact your veterinarian right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Severe bleeding;
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Signs of infection at the injection site, such as redness, swelling, heat, or discharge
These are not all of the side effects of Adequan Canine. Always contact your veterinarian if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not administer Adequan Canine if your dog is allergic to Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan or any of the ingredients in Adequan Canine. Before you start administering this medication, tell your veterinarian about your dog’s medical history, especially if it:
• Has a known or suspected bleeding disorder;
• Has kidney problems;
• Has liver problems;
• Is lactating;
• Is pregnant or breeding
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Adequan Canine and other medicines, such as anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, corticosteroids, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Inform your veterinarian if your dog is pregnant or is in the process of breeding. It is unknown if Adequan Canine is safe for use in pregnant or breeding dogs. Inform your veterinarian if your dog is lactating. The safety and effectiveness of Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan in lactating dogs have not been established.
Administer this medicine exactly as your veterinarian prescribes it. Adequan Canine is an injection. This medicine is approved for use only in dogs. This medicine is not for use in humans. A veterinarian or a trained owner administers Adequan Canine as an intramuscular (IM) injection. The dose and dosing schedule are based on your dog’s weight. Do not mix Adequan Canine with other drugs or solvents. Use needles only once. For optimal results, it is essential to complete the entire series of injections as prescribed. Store this drug between 20-25 °C. Protect from light. Keep out of the reach of children and pets.