Dechra Veterinary Products has launched Osphos, an intramuscular clodronic acid injection for the control of clinical signs associated with the bone resorptive processes of navicular syndrome in horses, the only such licensed product in the UK.

Dechra says it expects Osphos to change the way chronic lameness caused by navicular syndrome is tackled by equine vets.

According to the company, clinical trials of Osphos showed 74.7% of horses experienced improvement by at least one lameness grade at 56 days post treatment.

Dechra brand manager Emma Jennings said: "Osphos intramuscular injection contains the bisphosphonate clodronic acid which inhibits resorption in the navicular bone by binding to hydroxyapatite crystals and by direct cellular effects on osteoclasts.

"We are delighted with the results of the trials, which proved that Osphos is effective at 6 months post-treatment. We're looking forward to being able to support equine vets, vet nurses and practices by providing an intramuscular Clodronic acid injection for horses."

Dechra also says studies showed that mild transient colic was seen following just 1.6 per cent of treatments.

Osphos 60 mg/ml solution for injection for horses is available from September 2014. 

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