Adequan for Pets
Adequan is an injectable joint medication used most commonly in dogs with osteoarthritis or other non-infectious joint disease. Cats may sometimes receive polysulfated glycosaminoglycan off-label under a veterinarian’s guidance.
Quick Facts About Adequan
Drug class
Disease-modifying osteoarthritis drug (DMOAD) and chondroprotective agent.
Common brand names
Adequan Canine; the active ingredient is polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG).
Form
Injectable solution given by a veterinarian, and in some cases by trained pet owners exactly as instructed.
Species approved for
FDA-approved for dogs in the U.S.; cats may receive it off-label only under veterinary direction.
What Adequan Is Used For
Adequan contains polysulfated glycosaminoglycan, a medication used primarily to help manage signs of non-infectious degenerative and traumatic arthritis in dogs. It is considered a disease-modifying osteoarthritis drug, meaning it is used to support joint health rather than simply mask discomfort. Veterinary references describe PSGAG as accumulating in cartilage and synovial fluid, where it may help protect cartilage and support joint lubrication by influencing enzymes and joint-building components such as hyaluronic acid, proteoglycans, and collagen. In cats, veterinarians may sometimes prescribe it off-label for selected joint or mobility cases. Pets with arthritis may show limping, stiffness, trouble rising, reduced activity, reluctance to jump, or pain with movement. Common causes of arthritis include age-related joint degeneration, prior injury, developmental joint disease, and other non-infectious joint problems. Call your vet if your pet’s mobility is worsening or if you are not sure why the medication was prescribed.
Side Effects to Watch For
- Mild, short-lived pain at the injection site
- Temporary vomiting or diarrhea
- Reduced appetite
- Lethargy or seeming less active than usual
- Abnormal bleeding or bruising, which is more concerning because this medication has heparin-like properties
- Rare but serious reactions may include marked weakness, collapse, severe vomiting or diarrhea, facial swelling, hives, trouble breathing, or signs that seem much worse after an injection
- Pets with known or suspected bleeding disorders, septic joints, or possible allergy to the medication may not be good candidates
- Use extra caution in pets with kidney or liver disease, and ask your vet before use in pregnant, breeding, or nursing pets
Dosing & Administration
Always follow your vet's instructions. Adequan is an injectable medication, and the schedule depends on your pet’s diagnosis, species, overall health, and whether your veterinarian is using it on-label or off-label. Do not change the schedule, give extra doses, or stop early without checking with your vet. If your veterinary team has taught you how to give injections at home, use only the route, technique, and handling instructions they provided. Do not mix it with other medications unless your veterinarian specifically tells you to. If you miss a dose, contact your vet or follow the plan they gave you; in general, do not double up doses. Call your vet promptly if your pet seems painful after an injection, develops vomiting or diarrhea that does not improve, shows unusual bleeding, or seems significantly worse instead of better.
When to Call a Vet
Go to the ER now
- ● Trouble breathing, facial swelling, hives, or collapse after an injection
- ● Possible overdose or accidental extra injections
- ● Severe weakness, uncontrolled bleeding, black stools, or large unexplained bruises
- ● Signs of a severe reaction such as repeated vomiting, severe diarrhea, or sudden collapse
See a vet within 24 hours
- ● Persistent vomiting, diarrhea, low appetite, or lethargy after treatment
- ● Injection-site pain, swelling, or worsening lameness that does not improve
- ● New bruising or bleeding from the gums, nose, urine, or stool
- ● Your pet has kidney disease, liver disease, a bleeding disorder, or may be pregnant and you have medication safety questions
Watch at home, call if it worsens
- ● Mild temporary soreness at the injection site
- ● Brief, self-limited stomach upset if your vet has told you this can happen
- ● Gradual improvement may take time; call your vet if you are not seeing the response they expected
Common Questions About Adequan
Can I give my dog human Adequan?
What happens if I miss a dose?
Can my cat take Adequan?
How long does Adequan take to work?
Is Adequan a pain medication?
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary medical advice. Reading this content does not establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship. Every pet is different — always consult a licensed veterinarian before making decisions about your pet's health, diet, or care. If you'd like personalized guidance, you can talk to one of our vets. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local emergency animal hospital immediately.