The Legend^® Solution

Sodium hyaluronate (hyaluronic acid—HA) products have been used successfully for years to treat non-infectious synovitis and osteoarthritis in several species including the horse. HA is a normal component of joint fluid and cartilage and serves many functions, one of which is to "lubricate" the soft tissue structures of the joint and decrease inflammation. Previously, HA products were given only as intra-articular injections, directly into the joint space. Legend can be given intravenously (I.V.) and has shown beneficial results. Legend (hyaluronate sodium) is the only intravenous joint therapy product available.

Although the mechanism of action of HA is not entirely understood, it is recognized that sodium hyaluronate decreases synovial fluid inflammatory mediators (destructive enzymes) which may have a degradative effect upon articular cartilage.

In addition to the anti-inflammatory actions, HA acts as a lubricating substance within the joint and provides a "protective barrier" over the synovial membrane.

Legend is the non-infectious synovitis therapy that helps stop acute damage before it becomes chronic. Legend is pure hyaluronic acid, the same polysaccharide present in normal joint fluid to protect and lubricate joint cartilage and soft tissues. Legend is produced by a patented biofermentation process, resulting in such purity that it can be given intravenously for immediate bioavailability.

A Colorado State University study* demonstrated an intravenous administration of Legend significantly decreased the synovial fluid concentrations of prostaglandins, glycosaminoglycan (GAG), and total protein that are associated with non-infectious synovitis and osteoarthritis in the horse. The intravenous administration of Legend also decreased the severity of cellular infiltration and vascularity in the synovial membrane (i.e., decreased inflammation at the synovial membrane level). This study demonstrates the intravenous administration of Legend decreases inflammation, destructive enzymes associated with inflammation, and the degree of lameness in horses with non-infectious synovitis and osteoarthritis.

Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of alicensed veterinarian.

For use only in horses. Do not use in horses intended for human consumption.

* Refereneces: Kawcak, C. E., Frisbie, D.D., Trotter, G. W., McIllwaith, C.W., Gillette, S. M., Powers, B. E., Walton, R. M.: Effects of intravenous administration of hyaluronate sodium on carpal joints in exercising horses after arthroscopic surgery and osteochondral fragmentation. AJVR. Vol. 58, No. 10, October 1997.

Legend is a registered trademark of Bayer. Also sold under the trademark Hyonate® worldwide.

Learn More: The I.V. Advantage

Click here to view the complete label and usage instructions for this product.