What is Dasuquin® Advanced

Dasuquin® Advanced is a supplement used to improve joint function, reduce joint pain, and support flexibility and mobility in dogs and cats. Dasquin® Advanced contains several therapeutic ingredients, including glucosamine, methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), sodium chondroitin sulfate, avocado/soybean unsaponifiables (ASU), Boswellia serrata extract, omega fatty acids, decaffinated green tea extract, alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), manganese, and curcumin extract. 

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not review non-drug health products (e.g., herbals, nutraceuticals, shampoos, and other supplements) for safety or effectiveness before they are sold to the public. Manufacturers of non-drug health products must ensure their products are safe and labeled accurately.

The FDA requires that these non-pharmaceuticals contain a disclaimer that says, “This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” Health Canada licenses “veterinary health products” after reviewing safety, efficacy, and manufacturing information provided by the manufacturer. These products are not tested by Health Canada. 

Your veterinarian is the best source of information about the safety of non-drug health products in pets. Just because a product is natural does not mean it is safe. All medicines and medicinal plants are potentially toxic if used inappropriately or given at high doses. Supplements can also have side effects, like pharmaceuticals. Few supplements and herbs have been subjected to rigorous scientific trials to determine their efficacy.   

Although the information in this handout may be helpful, it may also be incomplete and may not represent the full range of effects the supplement could have on your pet.

How do I give my pet Dasuquin® Advanced?

• Dasuquin® Advanced supplements are given by mouth (orally).
• Oral formats include soft chewables, chewable tablets, and sprinkle capsules (cats).
• Supplements can be given with or without food.
• If vomiting occurs when dosed on an empty stomach, give future doses with food or a treat.
• Ideally, give supplements at the same time every day.
• Always ensure access to fresh water.
• Follow your veterinarian’s directions for use of this supplement. 
• Wash hands after use.
• Do not handle if you have a known sensitivity to this supplement.

This supplement can take several days to have an effect on the body, but side effects can occur immediately. The manufacturer recommends an initial higher dosage period of 4–6 weeks before dropping to a maintenance dose.

What if I miss giving my pet the supplement?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects from Dasuquin® Advanced ?

There are no documented side effects from Dasuquin® Advanced.

• Although not documented in Dasuquin® Advanced, oral supplements can cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as loose stools, flatulence and stomach upset. If this occurs, contact your veterinarian. 
• Sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.
• Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.

This supplement should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease. 

Are there any risk factors for this supplement?

Dasuquin® Advanced should not be used in:

• Pets who are allergic to it. 

Contact your veterinarian if your animal's condition does not improve or worsens despite this treatment. 

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

The following drugs should be used with caution when given with Dasuquin® Advanced:

• Anticoagulants (e.g., heparin, rivaroxaban, warfarin)
• Antidiabetic agents (e.g., glipizide, insulin, metformin)
• Doxorubicin

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this supplement?

• At home, monitor for any abnormal changes. If any occur, discontinue the supplement and contact your veterinarian.
• Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the supplement is working and not causing side effects. 

How do I store Dasuquin® Advanced?

• Store at room temperature in tightly sealed containers to avoid spillage. 
• Store in the original packaging.
• Keep out of the reach of children.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the supplement/treatment, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms. Adverse effects should also be reported to the FDA or Health Canada.