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IRAP™ Therapy

Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist protein (IRAP) is a potent anti-inflammatory used in the management of osteoarthritis in horses. Whole blood is taken from the horse into the IRAP® syringe, which contains specially coated glass beads. The syringe is then incubated, centrifuged, and the serum extracted for re-injection into the horse from which the blood was taken.

Northwest Equine Veterinary Associates has been treating horses with IRAP® since its approval in the United States nearly 10 years ago with very promising results and many happy success stories.

This product does not have the cartilage-damaging effects that can be seen with intra-articular corticosteroids and is frequently effective when corticosteroids are no longer effective in a particular joint. Additionally, IRAP® is very effective in managing osteoarthritis in horses for which corticosteroids are contraindicated, as in horses with PPID (equine Cushing’s disease).

Initiating therapy with IRAP® involves an initial blood draw followed by a series of three injections spaced 7-10 days apart. After completing the initial series, many horses are able to be maintained with a single IRAP® injection in each affected joint every 6-12 months.

At Northwest Equine Veterinary Associates, we are here to help. Contact us if you have questions or comments for our skilled veterinary staff who are ready to assist you.