Strictly Controlled Substances

Medication Guidelines | Medication Report 

Generally Allowed | Strictly Controlled

ESC has classified approximately 170 substances as Strictly Controlled. Recognizing that every horse and medication’s efficacy is unique, the prescribing veterinarian may use these medications to treat a horse for a clinical illness or injury and the vet is responsible for determining the appropriate withdrawal period from competition. The industry-standard formula for determining the medication efficacy is the half-life of the drug (as determined by the manufacturer), plus 5 times the half-life amount (t1/2 +5).

Medication reports are required at the time of administration and must include an attestation from the veterinarian regarding the diagnosis, prescription, and recommended withdrawal period to ensure a proper rest period for the horse, and to achieve the reduction in efficacy by 94-97% in plasma concentration for that specific medication.

Banned Medications and Substances

ESC has a zero tolerance for Banned Substances and there should be no detectible levels present. If withdraw times are not available for a banned substance, it is the responsibility of the agent or prescribing vet to obtain that information.