WARNING: Bova Injectable Omeprazole Contains Testosterone

Omeprazole is an extremely popular medication used in horses, small animals and even humans to treat and prevent the development of stomach ulcers.

It works by suppressing the production of stomach acid.

This article discusses a problem with an injectable Bova Compounded product that has testosterone contamination.

For competition horses, this has severe implications.

As such we always recommend registered products.

horse racing bova injectable omeprazole

Press Release from Racing NSW

WARNING TO TRAINERS FROM RACING NSW AND BOVA AUSTRALIA BOVA OMEPRAZOLE 100MG/ML INJECTION

Racing NSW Stewards have been provided with the analytical results from the Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory (ARFL) confirming the presence of the Anabolic Androgenic Steroid testosterone in a bottle of Omeprazole 100mg/mL injection manufactured by BOVA Australia used for the management of gastric ulcers.

Racing NSW and BOVA Australia are working together to identify the source of the testosterone, which is not used in the manufacture of Omeprazole, nor kept on BOVA’s premises.

At the request of Racing NSW and BOVA, the ARFL is currently conducting further analysis on additional bottles of the substance, including retention samples provided by BOVA. However, trainers and veterinarians are warned to immediately stop the use and dispensing of the product until any further notice from Racing NSW.

Further, trainers and their veterinarians are reminded that as provided for in AR248 and AR250 it is an offence for a person to have products containing an Anabolic Androgenic Steroid in their possession or to administer such product to a horse.

Trainers should consult with their dispensing veterinarian to return the product to BOVA, who will provide a refund and pay any postage costs.

Following the completion of the investigation and the identification and correction of the source of the contamination, trainers and veterinarians will be advised when the product is again available for use.

 

What Is Omeprazole?

Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that decreases the production of stomach acid, therefore, lowering gastric pH.

It is a drug that is used in humans, dogs, cats and horses for the treatment and prevention of gastrointestinal ulcers.

Omeprazole is a prescription animal remedy meaning that you must purchase after a consultation with a veterinarian.

Currently, there are no registered injectable omeprazole products only oral formulations.

The product of concern was being compounded by a registered pharmacy compounding company Bova.

 

Rules of Racing, Equestrian Australia and FEI

Anabolic steroids such as testosterone are banned in the Australian rules of horse racing and all other competitive horse sports in Australia.

The use a compounded product is also to be avoided.