FDA recalls Adequan shots for dogs and horses across US over glass fiber contamination

Anyone managing an older dog or horse with joint problems should pay attention to a recent FDA recall.

A nationwide FDA alert covers certain Adequan injections after some lots distributed nationwide were found to contain glass fiber contamination.

What happened?

American Regent Inc. is recalling selected lots of Adequan injections used for joint issues in dogs and horses. The company said the affected medication could contain glass fiber, posing a potentially serious risk to animals that receive the shots.

These products are commonly used to help manage joint pain and mobility problems, and the affected lots were distributed from May 2024 through January 2026 and expire between October 31, 2026 and March 31, 2027.

According to the FDA's notice, "The administration of an intramuscular injectable product containing particulate matter, such as glass fibers, may result in local irritation, swelling, inflammation, injection site pain, infection, or abscesses."

The agency added that "To date, American Regent, Inc. has not received any reports of adverse events related to recalled lots."

What can I do?

If your dog or horse has been prescribed Adequan, compare the packaging, vial, and lot information with the recall notice. If the medication appears to be included, do not use it until you have spoken with your veterinarian. You can also return the unused vials to the manufacturer or discard them.

Pet owners should contact their vet or the place where the prescription was filled to confirm whether their product is included in the recall and to discuss replacement options or alternative treatment plans. Animals with chronic joint pain may need a backup plan if treatment is interrupted.

Make sure to keep records of prescription medications, lot numbers, and treatment dates whenever possible. If a recall is issued later, that information can make it easier to determine whether an animal may have been exposed.

Owners whose animals may already have received one of the affected injections should monitor for symptoms and contact a veterinarian.

The lot numbers of the affected products, as well as the recall notice itself, can be found here.

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