Avoid Long Term Use of Ulcer Medications

By Juliet M. Getty, Ph.D.

They either turn off the acid-making machinery in the stomach or they neutralize acid. Stomach acid is a necessary component of your horse's immune system, destroying harmful pathogens that your horse picks up from the ground. Acid is also necessary to start protein digestion.

Omeprazole is commonly prescribed as a treatment for ulcers. Stopping suddenly can cause a more intense rebound acid production; therefore, always slowly wean your horse off of omeprazole.[i]

[i] For more information on omeprazole and alternatives when using bute, see "Is Your Horse on Bute? Consider Something Other than Omeprazole to Prevent Ulcers," by Dr. Juliet M. Getty  

For Permission to Reprint

For permission to reprint this article, in part or in its entirety, or arrange for a private consultation, please contact Dr. Getty directly at gettyequinenutrition@gmail.com.