Whether you’re a horse owner, veterinarian or equine nutritionist, knowing the facts about Ulcergard vs Gastrogard will help you make the most effective and cost-efficient decision for your horse’s health.
In this article, we'll explore the key differences between Ulcergard and Gastrogard, including active ingredients, dosage, side effects, duration of treatment, and more. So, let’s unravel the mystery surrounding Ulcergard vs Gastrogard and discover which is the best choice for your horses.
Overview of Ulcergard vs Gastrogard reviews
In the battle of ulcergard vs gastrogard, there are two products vying for the attention of horse owners. Each one has benefits and drawbacks, but for the horse owners, who want to make sure their horses get the best care, it pays to do the research and see which one might be the best solution for their equine friend's needs.Watch how ulcergard and gastrogard work at the source of acid.
The first product to consider is Ulcergard. This is a medication that works to block the action of stomach acid, thereby reducing the risk of ulcers in horses. It is available in both oral and injectable forms, and is effective when used as part of a gastro-protective program. It is also relatively affordable and easy to administer.
Gastrogard, on the other hand, is a more targeted approach to ulcer prevention. It works by blocking the effects of proton pump inhibitors, which are drugs used to reduce stomach acid levels. This product is more expensive than Ulcergard and requires more frequent dosing. However, it is generally considered to be a more effective preventative measure and may provide better results in the long-term.
When it comes to ulcergard and gastrogard, both products have a place in a comprehensive treatment plan for horses suffering from ulcers. Ulcergard and gastrogard are registered trademarks of merial.
1. Active Ingredients Ulcergard vs Gastrogard
Omeprazole and gastrogard are both powerful medicines that are used to treat gastric ulcers in horses. While both medications are equally effective, the active ingredients that each contains are quite different.While UlcerGard contains omeprazole, an inhibitor of gastric acid secretion, GastroGard contains omeprazole and levamisole, which is an anti-inflammatory agent. It is levamisole that gives GastroGard the advantage in reducing gastric ulcers and ensuring that the healing process is not interrupted.
When trying to decide between UlcerGard and GastroGard, it is important to note the active ingredients each contains and how they can help your horse's condition. Ultimately, the decision should be made in consultation with a qualified veterinarian.
2. Indications Ulcergard vs Gastrogard
When it comes to considering which medication to choose between gastrogard and ulcergard, understanding the indications of each, or what symptoms they treat, can help narrow down the decision.Ulcergard is indicated for the prevention of gastric ulcers, while Gastrogard is indicated for the treatment and prevention of equine gastric ulcers. Ulcergard works best when used not just for treatment but for prevention, as it helps protect the stomach lining whereas Gastrogard helps to promote healing.
So, when it comes to comparing Ulcergard vs Gastrogard, the indications for each can provide valuable insight as to which is the best choice for your horse's specific needs.
3. Dosage and Administration
Gastrogard contains omeprazole and is administered orally once daily for 28 consecutive days. It comes in a 2.28 gram syringe and each syringe delivers sufficient medication for a 700-kg horse. Ulcergard, on the other hand, contains the active ingredient omeprazole and is administered orally once a day for four consecutive days. It comes in a 3.5 gram syringe and each syringe delivers sufficient medication for a 700-kg horse.Although Gastrogard and Ulcergard both contain omeprazole, the dosage and administration differ significantly and should be taken into account when deciding which one to use.
4. Side Effects
Ulcergard and Gastrogard present similar side effects, though the magnitude can vary. Common side effects of both products include loss of appetite, diarrhea, and decreased energy levels.Gastrogard is more likely to cause mild stomachache and can be a bit more sedative than Ulcergard. However, while Gastrogard typically causes more drowsiness and a feeling of lethargy, Ulcergard can create harder impacts on the stomach, causing more discomfort and nausea. Both products should be taken with caution and monitored for any signs of adverse reactions.
Read also: When To Use Banamine For Horses Colic?
How Ulcergard and Gastrogard Differ
To unravel the mystery of ulcergard vs gastrogard, we’ve put together a thorough explanation of each medication and their differences.First, let’s start with Ulcergard. This medication is an over-the-counter preventative medication used to protect horses against stomach ulcers. It is the only FDA-approved preventative medication available. Ulcergard contains Omeprazole, an acid inhibitor, which helps the stomach to acidify to a normal level and reduce the risk of gastric ulcers. This medication is typically administered every day, or at least four times a week.
Now, what about Gastrogard? Gastrogard is a prescription medication that protects horses from gastric ulcers caused by NSAIDs, stress, or those that are naturally occurring in horses’ stomachs. This medication also contains Omeprazole, but at a higher dosage than Ulcergard. For this reason, Gastrogard is typically recommended for horses with severe ulcers or those who are at high risk for developing ulcers. Gastrogard is also administered daily or up to four times a week and must be prescribed by a veterinarian.
While both medications are effective in treating or preventing stomach ulcers, there are some key differences between ulcergard vs gastrogard. The most significant difference is the dosages of Omeprazole in each medication. Ulcergard contains a lower dose of this acid inhibitor, while Gastrogard employs a higher dose. As a result, Gastrogard is more effective in treating more severe ulcers and is usually recommended for horses who are at risk of developing serious stomach ulcers.
1. Forms gastrogard vs ulcergard
When it comes to unraveling the mysteries of ulcergard vs gastrogard, it can be difficult to know what to look for. Both products can be found in a variety of forms, including injectables, pastes, and gels. Gastrogard vs Ulcergard can depend on the form chosen and whether a particular form is suitable for a particular situation.Gastrogard is a paste that is usually administered twice a day and is usually most useful for addressing acute or sporadic occurrences of gastric ulcers. Ulcergard, on the other hand, is a gel that is administered once a day and is better suited to addressing chronic or recurring cases of gastric ulcers.
2. Duration of Treatment
When discussing the duration of treatment for ulcergard versus gastrogard, it is important to understand the difference between the two. Gastrogard is a long-term drug therapy for horses that suffer from gastric ulcers. Its duration of treatment can last up to six weeks, depending on the severity of the ulcer. On the other hand, Ulcergard is a short-term preventative drug that is given to horses prior to times of stress such as competition or travel. Its duration of treatment is usually around one week prior to anticipated stress.3. Costs gastrogard vs ulcergard
can be a deciding factor when trying to decide between Ulcergard and Gastrogard. Ulcergard is about half the price of Gastrogard, so if you’re looking for something more affordable, Ulcergard is definitely the way to go. On the other hand, if money is not a major issue, Gastrogard may be the better choice due to the slightly superior protection it provides from ulcers. Ultimately, it depends on your individual needs and budget.Conclusion
In conclusion, ulcergard vs gastrogard are two products that are effective in treating gastric ulcers in horses. Both products contain the same active ingredient omeprazole, although Gastrogard contains it in higher concentrations, which means it is more effective for severe cases of ulcers.
But Ulcergard is also effective, and is more economical and convenient than Gastrogard. When choosing between these two products, it’s important to consider the severity of the ulcer, the cost, and the convenience.
Knowing the differences between the two can help make the decision easier. Finally, by using Ulcergard and Gastrogard, horses can be given the chance to feel better and return to their normal activities without the worry of gastric ulcers.
