Study results published November 2004 in the Equine Veterinary Journal affirm the use of FCHG49® glucosamine hydrochloride and TRH122® low molecular weight chondroitin sulfate, as found exclusively in Cosequin®, for joint health support in horses. Cosequin has previously been shown to improve lameness grade in horses with radiographic evidence of joint cartilage damage, and studies have explored possible mechanisms of action for FCHG49 glucosamine hydrochloride and TRH122 low molecular weight chondroitin sulfate. This new study using equine cartilage cells, led by A. E. Schlueter, PhD, and M. W. Orth, PhD, of the department of animal science at Michigan State University, was conducted to further explore effects of the compounds on production of the inflammatory mediators associated with cartilage damage.

The study showed that the combination of FCHG49 glucosamine hydrochloride and TRH122 low molecular weight chondroitin sulfate "may suppress cartilage catabolism through regulating cell signaling molecules, including nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2)." Higher production of PGE2 and NO is seen in the joint when there is increased cartilage breakdown. The combination also decreased expression of another inflammatory mediator, matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9).

"The research reaffirmed that our product helps promote joint health," says Barbara Eves, DVM, manager of professional and technical services at Nutramax Laboratories, Inc. Eves continues, "It provides additional evidence for a mechanism of action of these compounds in protecting joint cartilage."

The study was sponsored in part by Nutramax Laboratories Inc, makers of Cosequin®, the only glucosamine/chondroitin sulfate brand shown effective and safe in horses in published, controlled U.S. studies