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Injectable omeprazole ‘can be used within rules’, BHA confirms
"Long-acting injectable omeprazole has become an important treatment option for horses with gastric disease" - Dr Mike Hewetson. 

Vets had been previously advised against using the drug owing to traces of testosterone

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has announced that injectable omeprazole, manufactured by Bova UK, can now be used in racehorses ‘within rules’.

Veterinary professionals had previously been advised against possessing, using or administering the drug in racehorses after small traces of testosterone were discovered in a batch of the product last year.


Although independent experts said there could be no adverse effects on equine health or equestrian sport, BOVA took immediate action to identify and eliminate the ingredient that contained the testosterone.


In September 2019, the product was declared free of testosterone and has since continued to be used in Australian racehorses after guidance from Racing NSW. Tests on multiple samples of injectable omeprazole ahead of sale have also since demonstrated the product to be free of testosterone. 


Dr Mike Hewetson from the Royal Veterinary College explained: “Long-acting injectable omeprazole has become an important treatment option for horses with gastric disease, particularly those affected by glandular gastric disease.”

A recent blind clinical trial of Bova’s injectable omeprazole found that healing rates for both glandular and squamous gastric disease were four times higher with injectable omeprazole than with a registered oral product.

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.