Optimal Feeding Strategies for Horses on Omeprazole and Sucralfate

Caring for horses with gastrointestinal issues like equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) can be challenging. It’s critical to understand the importance of providing affordable and effective medication, as it will affect your horse's health and well-being. To that end, let’s discuss optimal feeding strategies for horses on Omeprazole and Sucralfate, two of the most common and effective medications used to manage and treat EGUS.

Omeprazole (AbPrazole) to Treat Ulcers

  

Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that reduces stomach acid production. By decreasing the amount of acid in the stomach, Omeprazole helps prevent new ulcers from forming while supporting the healing of existing ulcers. It is particularly effective in treating EGUS as it provides long-lasting acid suppression. For optimal results, Omeprazole should be administered on an empty stomach.

Sucralfate (AbSucralfate) to Treat Ulcers

  

Sucralfate is a medication that forms a protective barrier on the ulcer to promote healing and relieve pain. It works by adhering to the ulcerated tissue and shielding it from stomach acids. This protective layer allows the ulcer to heal efficiently while preventing further damage. However, this does mean it can interact with other medications and supplements, so it is best given at least one hour after AbPrazole or other medications.

 

AbPrazole and AbSucralfate Work Best on An Empty Stomach

 

Both AbPrazole (Omeprazole) and AbSucralfate (Sucralfate) are most effective when administered on an empty stomach. AbPrazole can be given with a handful of damp (but not wet) feed. Because of the way AbSucralfate works, you should always wait at least one hour after treating your horse with AbPrazole before administering it.

This timing ensures that the AbSucralfate can form a barrier over the ulcerated tissue, promoting healing and providing pain relief. AbSucralfate can be mixed with water and then syringed directly into the horse's mouth. Alternatively, you can either make a paste from it and smear this over treats or sprinkle it over a handful of damp feed.  Treating your horse with both these medications improves the overall outcome for horses suffering from EGUS.

The Best Feeding Strategy for Horses on Omeprazole and Sucralfate

 

Establishing an appropriate feeding strategy is crucial to maximise the benefits of Omeprazole and Sucralfate. 

Here are some key recommendations:

 

  • Administer Medications on an Empty Stomach: Dose the horse with AbPrazole first thing in the morning, then administer the AbSucralfate an hour later. One hour later, your horse can be given its main feed to ensure the medications work effectively.
  • Frequent, Small Meals: Feed your horse small, frequent meals throughout the day to maintain consistent stomach acid levels and promote overall gut health. Omeprazole is effective for 24-hours, so is only a once-a-day treatment. But Sucralfate delivers the best results when administered every 8 hours, or at least twice a day. Frequent small meals will make it easier to administer the Sucralfate on a mostly empty stomach.
  • High-Fibre Diet: Incorporate plenty of forage, such as hay or pasture, to support digestive health and reduce the risk of ulcers.
  • Avoid High-Starch Feeds: Minimise the intake of high-starch feeds, which can increase stomach acid production and exacerbate ulcers.
  • Monitor Hydration: Ensure your horse has constant access to fresh water to support digestion and overall health.

 

Effective management of equine gastric ulcer syndrome requires a strategic approach to medication and feeding strategies. Administering AbPrazole and AbSucralfate on an empty stomach and following a carefully planned feeding regimen will significantly enhance treatment outcomes for horses with EGUS. By combining these medications and providing a supportive diet, horse carers and owners can ensure their horses receive the best possible care. Abler is committed to providing affordable and practical solutions to maintain your horse's health and well-being.