Bisphosphonates

OsPhos is an injectable bisphosphonate (similar in cateogory to Tildren) given intramuscularly to inhibit excessive bone loss and formation via its effects on osteoclasts and osteoblasts. It is useful in the treatment and prevention of orthopedic conditions associated with an imbalance in bone remodeling.

Osphos is approved for therapy of navicular disease in horses and has been widely used for other bone related diseases in horses with reported good success:

• Navicular related problems
• Ligament tears at bone insertions
• Bone abnormalities such as bone cysts
• Osteoarthritis including bone spurs
• Sesamoiditis
• Bone edema

OsPhos inhibits bone resorption by inhibiting cells called osteoclasts. Osteoclasts grab onto calcium crystals which comprise bone and dissolve them. By stopping osteoclast activity, OsPhos slows bone degradation.

OsPhos is administered as three 5 cc intramuscular injections given in three locations at one time. Mild colic signs, sweating, and anxiety can occur with injections and this is usually resolved with simple in hand walking for 20 minutes. We recommend re-examination after 2-3 months post injection to assess improvement of the lameness.