Esomeprazole in the treatment of equine glandular gastric disease

Abstract

Background: Equine glandular gastric disease is a highly prevalent disease, for which there is no universally effective treatment. Given the widespread use of esomeprazole in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease in humans, its use in horses warrants further investigation. Objective: To assess rates of healing of equine glandular gastric disease using oral esomeprazole. Study design: Retrospective case series. Methods: Medical records and gastroscopy images of horses diagnosed with equine glandular gastric disease and treated with esomeprazole by Avon Ridge Equine Veterinary Services were reviewed. Results: Out of four horses treated with esomeprazole for 28 days, 75% (three) healed and 25% (one) did not improve. Out of three horses treated with esomeprazole for 14 days, 67% (two) healed and 33% (one) did not improve. Main limitations: The study was limited by its retrospective nature and small sample size. Conclusions: Esomeprazole may be a valid first-line treatment option for equine glandular gastric disease. Larger and more robust studies of esomeprazole are warranted.