Results of a survey of equine practitioners on the use and perceived efficacy of polysulfated glycosaminoglycan.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the patterns of use and perceived efficacy of polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG) for the treatment of degenerative joint disease in horses.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional mail survey.

SAMPLE POPULATION

1,522 equine practitioners.

PROCEDURE

Information was obtained on frequency and route of administration of PSGAG for the treatment of each of 4 forms of degenerative joint disease, the efficacy of PSGAG, and its efficacy compared with that of sodium hyaluronate. Data were analyzed by nonparametric and multivariate regression methods.

RESULTS

Response rate was 40.5%. Of practitioners responding, 26% were classified as having a special interest in lameness and 74% as general practitioners. Use of PSGAG was reported by 90.5% of all practitioners, but lameness practitioners used PSGAG more frequently than general practitioners. Use of PSGAG also was significantly more common among practitioners involved predominately with racing. Thoroughbreds, Standardbreds, or show horses. Use of PSGAG was reported to be moderately effective in the treatment of the 4 joint disease conditions. Practitioners treating Thoroughbred racehorses gave highest efficacy scores, and pleasure horse practitioners gave lowest efficacy scores. Use of PSGAG was considered more effective than sodium hyaluronate for the treatment of subacute degenerative joint disease and less effective for idiopathic joint effusion and acute synovitis.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Use of PSGAG is regarded as moderately effective overall and is considered most useful in the treatment of subacute degenerative joint disease. The efficacy of PSGAG for incipient and chronic forms of degenerative disease is considered comparable to that of sodium hyaluronate.