Equi-Tech: Legal Racing Medications and Supplements

written for Arabian Finish Line by Stephanie Corum

I received a request from a reader that I take a look at some of the legal medications and supplements commonly given to horses in race training. What exactly are they and why are they used? The ones listed in this column are just a few that were asked about and are by no means an extensive list. As a racehorse owner, you have a right to know and understand what is being given to your horse. However, I am only listing the very basic information, and I would recommend that if you have any questions about what your horse is receiving that you contact your veterinarian or trainer.

Acetylcysteine is also known as N-acetylcystein or N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC). It is indicated for mucolytic (or "mucus dissolving") therapy for respiratory conditions that have excess or thick mucus production.

Amicar is a name for aminocaproic acid. It is a derivative and analogue of the amino acid lysine. It is an inhibitor for enzymes that bind plasmin and is effective in treating some bleeding disorders.

Aspirin is the first non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Technically, aspirin is Bayer's registered trade name of acetylsalicylic acid. It is used as a pain reliever and fever reducer. Like other NSAIDs, it can cause stomach ulcers.

B Vitamins are necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and nucleic acids. All B vitamins except B12 are found in good-quality forages and are synthesized by bacteria in the equine hindgut. The body synthesizes enough vitamin B12 when the horse gets sufficient cobalt in the diet. Supplementing with B vitamins could be beneficial in very young, very old, and hard working horses as well as horses fed high-grain rations. These horses might have an altered population of bacteria in the hindgut making it difficult for them to synthesize enough.

Calcium and Phosphorus really need to be handled together. These two minerals, critical to the maintenance of strong bones and muscles, need to be in balance with each other, with at least as much calcium as phosphorus in the system, never the other way around. If your horse is receiving hay and grain, chances are the calcium: phosphorus ratio is fine because grains contain more phosphorus than calcium and hay typically has plenty of calcium but little phosphorus. To be sure, compare the numbers, and make sure that there is at least 0.2% phosphorus overall and 0.2% or more of calcium. For young horses, you might want to supplement both of these minerals to support healthy bone growth.

Camphor in Oil - Camphor alone is a white, waxy solid that gives off a strong, aromatic odor. It is found in the wood of the camphor laurel, a large evergreen found in Asia, but can also be produced synthetically from oil of turpentine. It is an ingredient in cooling gels that are used for joint pain. It provides heat, stimulates circulation and has a slight anesthetic and antimicrobial action. In people it can also be used as a cough suppressant.

Dexamethasone is a synthetic steroid hormone that acts as an anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant. It is a potent treatment option for inflammatory conditions. Combined with Trichlormethiazide, it is used to treat swelling of distal limbs and general bruising.

Estrone is also known as oestrone. It is one of three estrogenic hormones secreted by the ovary. Estriol and estradiol are the other two, but estrone is the least abundant of the three. It can also be synthesized and administered.

Glycopyrrolate is a synthetic medication effective in decreasing the acidity of gastric secretion. It may be used for treating stomach ulcers in combination with other medications. In people, it is also used as a preoperative medication to reduce salivary, tracheobronchial and pharyngeal secretions. Glycopyrrolate reduces the body's sweating ability, so measures need to be taken to prevent heat stroke in hot, humid climates.

Ketofen is also known as Ketoprofen. It is another NSAID that has analgesic effects. It inhibits prostaglandin and is commonly used for musculoskeletal pain, joint problems, soft tissue injury and laminitis. It also controls fever and prevents endotoxemia. Side effects of Ketofen are uncommon and fewer than flunixin (Banamine) and phenylbutazone (Bute). However, it does mask symptoms of the underlying problem so it is important to take that into consideration if a diagnosis has not yet been made.

Lactanase is an enzymic modulator used to reduce lactic acid build-up and delay muscle fatigue. Given as an IV injection, Lactanase contains dichloroacetic acid (DCA), an activator of the enzyme pyruvate dehydrogenase, which plays a central role in lactic acid production during hard work. Supplementation with DCA reduces lactic acid accumulation during exercise and delays muscle fatigue.

Magnesium sulfate is a chemical compound that contains magnesium, sulfur and oxygen. It is found in Epsom salts, which is commonly used for drawing out abscesses in the hoof.

Phenylbutazone is commonly known by its trade name Bute. It is a synthetic, nonhormonal, anti-inflammatory useful in the management of injuries associated with the musculoskeletal system. The lowest dose capable of producing the desired result should be used. Response to phenylbutazone usually occurs within 24 hours, so if no clinical response is seen within 5 days, the diagnosis should be reevaluated. If GI upset is seen, the medication should be stopped.