In episode 104 we discuss how latex in arena and track footing may affect equine respiration; we also explore Multidrug Resistance Mutation (MDR-1) and the use of omeprazole for horses with ulcers. Just for fun, we conduct a celebrity pet match
Listen in…
Guests and Links for Episode 104:
- Link to Sound File for Sight Impaired: Click Here
- Co-Hosts: Tigger Montague from BiostarUS and Pati Pierucci from from Pierucci Dressage
- Link: Omeprazole for Horses with Ulcers: the Good, Bad and the Questionable
- Ask Hedwig Facebook
- Learn more about Whole Foods for Horses and Dogs
Co-host Tigger Montague breaks down the better and lesser-known effects of omeprazole for horses with ulcers:
Omeprazole is capable of reducing hydrochloric acid in the stomach by up to 99%. While this action is beneficial for healing ulcers in the squamous portion, there are ramifications.
- Stomach acid is needed by horses to digest proteins.
- Stomach acid helps create a hostile environment so certain pathogenic bacteria cannot flourish.
- Stomach acid activates pepsin, an enzyme that breaks protein into amino acids.
- The suppression of digestive acids by omeprazole affects key mineral absorption of calcium and magnesium.
- A small digestibility trial by Kentucky Equine Research showed that two weeks of omeprazole administration decreased calcium digestibility by 20% for calcium carbonate, and 15% for marine-derived (seaweed) calcium.
- Blocking stomach acid for a period of time can cause the body to increase production of stomach acid after omeprazole treatment. This can lead to heartburn and dyspepsia which help to form new ulcers.
- A study on omeprazole published in the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science concluded: “Oral administration of omeprazole in healthy equines interfered with the metabolism of digestive biomarkers of lipid, mineral and protein metabolism, although the animals were treated for a maximum of 11 days. Horses treated with a proton-pump inhibitor need to be evaluated regularly to avoid significant modification in their metabolic parameters.”
At Healthy Critters Radio, we are hopeless animal lovers who want to share our experience and knowledge with you, for the betterment of your animals’ lives. We focus on health, nutrition, behavior, and ideas for overall well-being and happiness. Twice a month, we bring you guest experts, advice, commentary, and a lot of fun and laughter! If there is ever a topic you’d like for us to cover, let us know on our contact page!
