What's best to treat equine gastric ulcers-  granules or paste ?

The most effective way to treat equine gastric ulcers, is with omeprazole administered once a day for at least 28 days. Omeprazole works by blocking the over production of gastric acid in the stomach.

Proton pump inhibitors
Equine Omeprazole the go to medication for gastric ulcers

Equine omeprazole is available in both paste and granule form.

The paste comes in a syringe and is the better known method of administering the omeprazole. Many horse owners find a syringe easier to use however it is not as cost effective as omeprazole granules.

Granulated omeprazole comes in individual sachets and it offers the following benefits:

  • more affordable
  • simple to administer onto feed
  • single dose sachets or bulk packs
  • convenient to pack for travel
  • pre measured packs -allowing stable hand to administer

In conclusion both equine omeprazole forms are effective in the treatment and prevention of gastric ulcers. The choice of using paste over granules is a matter of preference for the horse owner. 

Ulcers can bring great discomfort to a horse.

Gastric ulcers are a common problem experienced by a large percentage of performance horses. They affect horses of varying age, with foals being the most susceptible. Different factors lead to the development of ulcers. Equine omeprazole is most effective for treating and preventing gastric ulcers.

Why do horses develop gastric ulcers?

A horse’s diet, management and stress levels are common causes of equine gastric ulcers. Horses that freely graze on pasture are less likely to develop gastric ulcers compared to horses in training. Feeding high concentrated feed or grain and less hay will almost always lead to an increased incidence of gastric ulcers. Similarly other factors may include, but not limited to the following:

  •  Stress from changing their environment
  •  Prolonged stall confinement
  •  Stable changes
  •  Transportation or hauling
  •  Training - Heavy workload