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T99-14 Print Media: 301-827-6242
March 18, 1999
Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA
FDA APPROVES FIRST ULCER DRUG FOR HORSES
FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) has approved the
first drug -- GastroGard (omeprazole) -- for treatment and
prevention of recurrence of gastric ulcers in horses and foals
greater than 4 weeks of age. Gastric ulcers are a common problem
in foals and in horses in stressful environments. The disease is
debilitating and often leads to death, especially among foals.
The safety of the drug in pregnant or lactating mares has not
been determined.
Omeprazole, under the tradename Prilosec, is also approved
for short-term treatment of duodenal and gastric ulcers in
humans. In addition, it is approved for the short-term (4-8
weeks) treatment of erosive esophagitis and of symptomatic
gastro-esophageal reflux disease in humans.
GastroGard, which is an oral paste in a calibrated syringe,
will be sold by Merial Limited of Iselin, New Jersey. It will be
available only on the order of a licensed veterinarian.
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