Alpha-2 EQ

ALPHA 2 EQ is a patented equine plasma technology that targets signs of inflammation and osteoarthritis in the horse.

We are very excited to be offering a2EQ as an additional therapy for equine joint inflammation at the clinic. The minimally invasive process is a progression from the Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) technology that sought to concentrate plasma proteins from the horse’s blood for therapeutic use. A2EQ involves taking the horse’s own blood to spin down into a concentrated sample of alpha 2 Macroglobulin (a2M) that is then injected back into one or multiple inflamed joints as required. Any excess product can be frozen for up to 12 months to be used at a later date. A2EQ has proven particularly beneficial in older horses or ponies at risk of laminitis, where steroid use may be contraindicated. It’s also a great option for competition horses as it allows us to minimise intra-articular steroid treatments with the added benefit of being fully legal for, and having no withdrawal time from your competition diary.

The alpha 2 Macroglobulin (a2M) is a naturally occurring molecule in the horse’s blood, forming part of the body’s integral defence against joint inflammation, cartilage breakdown and pain. It does this by being a potent inhibitor of cartilage catabolic enzymes that trigger joint breakdown, and thereby a2M slows the progression of osteoarthritis. Unfortunately, the size of the a2M molecule prevents it from entering the joint space in higher concentrations naturally and so the innovative a2EQ process allows us to isolate and concentrate this molecule from the blood, delivering it directly back to where it is needed most for maximum benefit to our horses and ponies today.

Visit their website for more information at https://alpha2eq.com.

Please don’t hesitate to call the office if you would like to talk to a vet about the suitability of this treatment for your equine.