Isoxsuprine
Encyclopedia
Isoxsuprine, or Isoxsuprine hydrochloride, is a drug used as a vasodilator in human
s and equines.
and navicular disease
, as its effects as a vasodilator are thought to increase circulation within the hoof to help counteract the problems associated with these conditions.
There are many veterinarians—and horsemen—who do not believe isoxsuprine to be effective. Its use is therefore rather controversial within the veterinary field.
s and anesthetic drugs. Because it is a vasodilator, it should not be used in horses that are bleeding, or in mares following foaling.
Isoxsuprine is a prohibited class B drug in FEI
-regulated competition, and is often prohibited by other equine associations. It may be detected in the urine for several weeks or months following administration. It is therefore important to check the drug-rules within an animal's given competitive organization, before administering the drug.
Human
Humans are the only living species in the Homo genus...
s and equines.
Reasons for use and controversy
Isoxsuprine is most commonly used to treat hoof-related problems in the horse, most commonly for laminitisLaminitis
Laminitis is a disease that affects the feet of ungulates. It is best known in horses and cattle. Symptoms include lameness, and increased temperature in the hooves...
and navicular disease
Navicular Disease
Navicular Disease is a soundness problem in horses, more accurately called "navicular syndrome" as opposed to "disease." It most commonly describes an inflammation or degeneration of the navicular bone and its surrounding tissues, usually on the front feet...
, as its effects as a vasodilator are thought to increase circulation within the hoof to help counteract the problems associated with these conditions.
There are many veterinarians—and horsemen—who do not believe isoxsuprine to be effective. Its use is therefore rather controversial within the veterinary field.
Precautions and side-effects
Isoxsuprine may increase the animal's heart rate, cause changes in blood pressure, and irritate the GI tract. It should therefore be used with caution if combined with other drugs that affect blood pressure, such as sedativeSedative
A sedative or tranquilizer is a substance that induces sedation by reducing irritability or excitement....
s and anesthetic drugs. Because it is a vasodilator, it should not be used in horses that are bleeding, or in mares following foaling.
Isoxsuprine is a prohibited class B drug in FEI
International Federation for Equestrian Sports
The Fédération Équestre Internationale or in English, the International Federation for Equestrian Sports, is the international governing body of equestrian sports. It recognizes ten international disciplines...
-regulated competition, and is often prohibited by other equine associations. It may be detected in the urine for several weeks or months following administration. It is therefore important to check the drug-rules within an animal's given competitive organization, before administering the drug.
Uses and Mechanism of use in humans
Isoxsuprine is a beta-adrenergic agonist that causes direct relaxation of uterine and vascular smooth muscle. Therefore, it is used in humans for treatment of premature labour, i.e. a tocolyticTocolytic
Tocolytics are medications used to suppress premature labor . They are given when delivery would result in premature birth...