Breakthrough treatment for hurting horses

A new osteoarthritis drug combination trialled by University of Sydney researchers could significantly extend the working life of racing and other performance horses and could potentially benefit humans. Various medications have been assessed for the treatment of osteoarthritis in horses, but this is one of the first studies to show a new drug combination has the ability to slow down damage to joints, rather than just alleviate pain. "Osteoarthritis is a major cause of wastage in athletic horses, with a significant economic impact on the equine industry," said Toby Koenig , surgery resident at the University of Sydney Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Camden. Koenig led the clinical research trial at the hospital's Research and Clinical Training Unit (REaCT) which involved treating osteoarthritis in 16 horses undergoing simulated race training. "We found a new combination of three commonly used drugs - pentosan polysulphate, glucosamine and hyaluronic acid - can reduce the damage experienced during strenuous exercise," said Koenig, who will present his results at a conference on the Gold Coast this Friday 1 July. "Until now the focus has been on minimising pain for horses suffering from osteoarthritis. We think this new drug combination could have significant impact on the way horses are treated, potentially extending careers of horses in racing, dressage and other competitive events." Professor Andrew Dart , the Director of REaCT and one of Koenig's supervisors, said the study is a significant international and multi-institutional investigation, with major implications not just for horses, but for other species.