Has anyone used arthopen for arthritis and back issues before? Looking for info on cost & effectiveness x

[Jazy]

Vet has suggested the arthropen injection as my pony has several issues, diagnosed with close vertebrae and a hole in the proximal suspensory earlier this year (now healed) and hock arthritis in 2022. He’s 19 so we’re also trialing him on Bute for a couple weeks. Unfortunately I think it’s just time for him to slow down, but we’re trying to make him as comfortable as possible and to keep him going as long as we can.

 

[rara007]

It’s the same as Cartrophen, you’ll probably get more searching that

 

[ThreeFurs]

Absolutely! asap. its great stuff; and of all the arthritis drugs its one that has actual research behind it. It doesn't stop the arthritis [once that starts ... on it goes] but it can slow down the damage, and improve the synovial fluid, the slippery stuff that lubricates the joints. Its also slightly analgesic [painkilling] and anti-inflammatory.

My dressage schoolmaster has been on it since he was 15. He retired at 23, and is now 29, still gets it every weeks so he can comfortably get around. When he was in full work, I combined it with 4Cyte; the epitalis based supplement as they work in complimentary ways [according to a vet lecture I went to].

A 50ml bottle, 'Pentosan' 250mg/ml costing $450 AUD lasts around 6 months for a 6ml intramuscular injection once a month or so, so stacks up well vs a range of unproven herbal treatments.

 

[ozpoz]

Yes, stronger than Cartrophen which is the canine version and better value too.

 

[littleshetland]

I was wondering if it would be a suitable treatment for neck arthritis? I’ve got a horse that’s arthritic in his neck, C6, C7 and T1.
I know steroids are the usual treatment, but does anyone have any experience of an alternative to steroids?

 

[Alexanderevan145]

Many vets recommend Arthropen alongside Bute as it supports joint fluid and cartilage. For a pony, the injection series cost is usually £200-£400 depending on vet fees. It's generally well-regarded for mild-moderate arthritis, especially in hocks. It won't fix mechanical issues like close vertebrae, but can help with comfort. Combined with bute and managed work, it can help keep an older pony more comfortable. Best to discuss the cost directly with your vet for a precise quote. Hope your pony feels better.