About Adequan Canine


What is Adequan® Canine (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan)?
Adequan Canine is the only FDA-approved disease-modifying osteoarthritis drug for dogs. It proactively treats the disease and not just the signs. Adequan Canine helps to restore joint lubrication, relieve inflammation, and renew the building blocks of healthy joint cartilage—to help keep dogs moving. Adequan  Canine can be used early, at the first clinical signs of degenerative joint disease (DJD). Continue to use Adequan Canine based on the reoccurrence of clinical signs to treat arthritis and help maintain mobility and comfort.
What is a DMOAD?
Are corticosteroids or NSAIDs disease-modifying OA drugs like Adequan Canine?
Is there a generic version available?

Mechanism of action & efficacy


What is the mechanism of action for Adequan Canine?

  • The specific mechanism of action of Adequan® in canine joints is not known.2 In vitro research suggests that polysulfated glycosaminoglycan:2
    • Inhibits certain catabolic enzymes which have increased activity in inflamed joints.
    • Enhances the activity of anabolic enzymes.
    • Potentiates hyaluronic acid synthesis by synovial membrane cells (synoviocytes).
  • Anabolic effects studied include the ability to stimulate the synthesis of protein, collagen and proteoglycans.
  • In articular cartilage the drug is deposited into cartilage matrix and may help shield against further degradation.

Watch how Adequan Canine works. Check out the MOA video.

What is the pharmacology of Adequan Canine?

How to use Adequan Canine


How is Adequan Canine packaged?

Adequan Canine is supplied as 100 mg/mL in a 5 mL preserved multiple dose vial. Each package contains 2 vials.

What is the approved dosing for Adequan Canine?
What is the treatment protocol after the first 8 injections?
Where do I administer an injection?
Can the 8 doses be withdrawn at one time for a full course of treatment into 8 syringes to have available for traveling?
Do I have to keep Adequan Canine refrigerated?
Is Adequan Canine in a multiple-use vial?
Does Adequan Canine come with syringes?

Safety & approved uses


Are there age or breed restrictions for Adequan Canine?

There are no age or breed restrictions.

Can I give Adequan Canine to a dog already taking an NSAID?
Are there any contraindications?
Any precautions?
What is the current Important Safety Information (ISI)?

Ordering & shipping


How do I order Adequan Canine?

Adequan Canine can be ordered through a wide network of authorized veterinary distributors. Please visit Ordering Information or call American Regent Animal Health at 800-458-0163.

What should I do if I received product that was shipped in a method different from the recommended storage?
How do I return expired product?
Is there an American Regent Animal Health sales representative I can call?

For more information


Where can I get marketing and in-clinic materials?

  • To request marketing and promotional materials for your clinic, contact your local American Regent Animal Health sales representative or reach out to ARAH directly.
  • To learn more about currently available materials, visit our Resource Library or call ARAH at 800-458-0163.

Who can I call with questions about Adequan Canine?

Let’s keep in touch

Stay in the know about the latest Adequan® Canine news, information, resources and more.

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  1. Disease modification in osteoarthritis: are we there yet?” W.M. Oo, D.J. Hunger, Clin Exp Rheumatol 2019; 37 (Suppl. 12): S135-S140.
  2. Adequan® Canine (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan), Package Insert. American Regent, Inc
  3. Adequan® Canine (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan) NADA 141-038 FOI Summary, 1997.