Semi-synthetic polysulfated heparin-like compound that inhibits degradative enzymes (metalloproteinases, elastase) in joint fluid, stimulates chondrocyte proteoglycan synthesis, and improves synovial fluid viscosity. Reduces cartilage degradation and promotes repair.
At a glance
Class
Disease-Modifying Osteoarthritis Drug (DMOAD)
Storage
Store at room temperature 15–30°C; do not freeze
Dosing
FDA-approved for canine OA
Frequency
2x/week x 4 weeks (loading); monthly (maintenance)
FDA-approved for feline OA (Adequan Feline)
Frequency
2x/week x 4 weeks; monthly maintenance
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Safety
Lameness scoreJoint effusionQuality of life assessmentCoagulation if concurrent anticoagulants
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG)?
Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG) is a disease-modifying osteoarthritis drug (dmoad) used in pets. Semi-synthetic polysulfated heparin-like compound that inhibits degradative enzymes (metalloproteinases, elastase) in joint fluid, stimulates chondrocyte proteoglycan synthesis, and improves synovial fluid viscosity. Reduces cartilage degradation and promotes repair.
›What is Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG) used for in pets?
Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG) is used in veterinary medicine for: FDA-approved for canine OA; FDA-approved for feline OA (Adequan Feline).
›What is the Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG) dose for dogs?
For dogs, Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG) is typically dosed as follows — FDA-approved for canine OA: 4.4 mg/kg IM 2x/week x 4 weeks (loading); monthly (maintenance). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG) dose for cats?
For cats, Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG) is typically dosed as follows — FDA-approved for feline OA (Adequan Feline): undefined undefined SQ 2x/week x 4 weeks; monthly maintenance. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG) need a prescription?
Yes. Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG) is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →References
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database