Gastric Ulcers in Horses, Explained

Key Takeaways

• Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) is extremely common, affecting up to 60% of show horses and 90% of racehorses, according to the American Association of Equine Practitioners.
• Ulcers are caused by excess stomach acid, often linked to stress, and can impact horses of any age, breed, or discipline. 
• Common signs include changes in appetite, weight loss, dull hair coat, recurring colic, poor performance, and attitude changes. 
• UlcerGard is the only FDA-approved medication for prevention of equine stomach ulcers and is available without a prescription.
• GastroGard is the only FDA-approved treatment for equine stomach ulcers, requires a prescription, and both products work by suppressing stomach acid with omeprazole.

Ulcers impact 60% of show horses and 90% of racehorses, according to American Association of Equine Practitioners.

Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) is a painful condition that can affect horses, regardless of age, breed or riding discipline. Equine stomach ulcers are caused by excess stomach acid, often produced as a result of stress. The pain from stomach ulcers may lead to certain changes in your horse’s behavior. Signs include a change in eating or drinking habits, weight loss, dull hair coat, recurring colic, poor performance and overall poor attitude.

UlcerGard is the only medication approved by the FDA for the prevention of equine stomach ulcers. GastroGard is the only medication approved by the FDA for the treatment of equine stomach ulcers. Both GastroGard and UlcerGard contain 2.28 grams of the medication omeprazole, per oral syringe. Omeprazole suppresses the production of stomach acid.

UlcerGard is available without a prescription. The typical preventative dosage is ½ syringe per 1200 lbs body weight daily, for 8 days or 28 days. GastroGard requires a prescription for purchase. The typical treatment dosage is 1 syringe per 1250 lbs daily for 4 weeks, followed by ½ syringe daily for 4 weeks for prevention of recurrence.

Many other products are available to address equine stomach ulcers and other digestive disturbances.

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