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
Safety
Lameness scoreJoint effusionQuality of life assessmentCoagulation if concurrent anticoagulants
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.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
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.
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