Medication Administration Guidelines
For 2025, ESC requires Medical Report/Attestation for use of STRICTLY-CONTROLLED MEDICATIONS at the following shows:
Rock Creek
Kentucky State Fair World’s Championship
Mane Event
When showing in the states of Florida or California government officials require reports for all medications given. Show Management at any ESC event may request that a horse be drug tested when there is a welfare concern.
SEARCH TOOLS
Use the database search tool buttons below to easily find over 1,200 equine medications and their accepted uses at ESC-sanctioned events. Medications are grouped into either Generally Controlled or Strictly Controlled. Please note that withdrawal times are recommendations based on a single dose. The use of multiple medications or combinations may result in increased concentration levels.
Generally Controlled Medications
ESC has classified approximately 60 medications as Generally Controlled.
These meds do not require Medical Reports when used as directed, following recommended withdrawal times.
15 of these medications may be given as directed with NO withdrawal time.
A single dose of Bute or Banamaine is allowed 6 hours before competing, provided that no other NSAIDS have been given in the preceding 36 hours.
ESC highly recommends using a medication attestation/report to document withdrawal times of 24 hours or more and to ensure accurate record-keeping, should it be needed later in the event of a positive drug test.
Strictly Controlled Medications
ESC has classified approximately 170 substances as Strictly Controlled, and these generally have a zero-tolerance policy for concentration levels. 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 withdrawal period 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 proper rest for the horse and to achieve a zero tolerance in concentration levels.
BANNED MEDICATIONS AND SUBSTANCES – Are not permitted at any time. ESC does not condone use of Banned substances. If withdraw times are not available for a banned substance, it is the responsibility of the agent or prescribing vet to obtain that information.