BetaVet® is the only FDA-approved dual ingredient injectable corticosteroid for use in horses.


The ongoing pain and inflammation associated with the development of osteoarthritis (OA) can be career-limiting for athletic horses required to perform at a high level. Intra-articular corticosteroids, such as BetaVet® (betamethasone sodium phosphate and betamethasone acetate injectable suspension), are considered a cornerstone of therapy in the medical management of OA by equine practitioners to help reduce inflammation in horses.

Learn more about the advantages of BetaVet in the BetaVet Facts Brochure.

FACTS BROCHURE

“In my mind, BetaVet provides the best of both of the
other common corticosteroids while minimizing the potential negatives.”

Avi Blake, DVM

Sr. Manager, Technical Services Veterinarian, American Regent Animal Health

Two active ingredients provide dual power.

BetaVet is formulated with Betamethasone sodium phosphate - 3.15 mg;1 a highly soluble betamethasone ester with a rapid onset of action2
Betamethasone acetate - 2.85 mg;1 a less soluble betamethasone ester with a prolonged action2

Time to peak plasma concentrations (Tmax) achieved in as little as 4.5 to 8 hours*
*Clinical significance of these results is unknown.

BetaVet® (betamethasone sodium phosphate and betamethasone acetate injectable suspension) 6 mg betamethasone/mL

For Intra-articular (I.A.) use in Horses.

INDICATIONS: BetaVet® is indicated for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in horses.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
CONTRAINDICATIONS: BetaVet® is contraindicated in horses with hypersensitivity to betamethasone. Intra-articular injection of corticosteroids for local effect is contraindicated in the presence of septic arthritis.WARNINGS: Do not use in horses intended for human consumption. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta, and metritis. Additionally, corticosteroids administered to dogs, rabbits and rodents during pregnancy have resulted congenital anomalies. Before use of corticosteroids in pregnant animals, the possible benefits should be weighed against potential hazards. Human Warnings: Not for use in humans. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children. PRECAUTIONS: Corticosteroids, including BetaVet®, administered intra-articularly are systemically absorbed. Do not use in horses with acute infections. Acute moderate to severe exacerbation of pain, further loss of joint motion, fever, or malaise within several days following intra-articular injection may indicate a septic process. Because of the anti-inflammatory action of corticosteroids, signs of infection in the treated joint may be masked. Due to the potential for exacerbation of clinical signs of laminitis, glucocorticoids should be used with caution in horses with a history of laminitis, or horses otherwise at a higher risk for laminitis. Use with caution in horses with chronic nephritis, equine pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID), and congestive heart failure. Concurrent use of other anti-inflammatory drugs should be approached with caution. Consider appropriate wash out times prior to administering additional NSAIDs or corticosteroids. ADVERSE REACTIONS: Adverse reactions reported during a field study of 239 horses of various breeds which had been administered either BetaVet® (n=119) or a saline control (n=120) at five percent (5%) and above were: acute joint effusion and/or local injection site swelling (within 2 days of injection), 15% BetaVet® and 13% saline control; increased lameness (within the first 5 days), 6.7% BetaVet® and 8.3% saline control; loose stool, 5.9% BetaVet® and 8.3% saline control; increased heat in joint, 2.5% BetaVet® and 5% saline control; and depression, 5.9% BetaVet® and 1.6% saline control.

SHAKE WELL IMMEDIATELY BEFORE USE. For additional safety information, please see full prescribing information.

CAUTION:Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.

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  1. McIlwraith CW, Frisbie DD, Kawcak CE, van Weeren PR. Joint Disease in the Horse. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier, 2016; 33-48.
  2. Trotter GW. Intra-articular corticosteroids. In: McIlwraith CW, Trotter GW, eds. Joint Disease in the Horse. Philadelphia, PA; W.B. Saunders, 996;237–256.

Advancing joint care for dogs & horses


For more than 30 years, veterinarians have relied on the American Regent Animal Health family of products to provide solutions that help support joint health in their patients. Our mission is to champion the long-term well-being and mobility of animals, from top athletes to family companions.