Update on the Use of Products Containing Altrenogest

Equestrian Australia (EA) wishes to notify its Members about an update to the warning we gave in July re the use of altrenogest.

The FEI has released the following statement on the use of products containing altrenogest:

“Altrenogest is used to suppress oestrus in mares, and its use for this specific purpose is allowed under FEI rules. Its use in a male horse (gelding or stallion) is not permissible.

Earlier this year, Australian racehorses tested positive for the anabolic agents Trendione and Trenbolone following administration of Altrenogest. The investigation revealed that traces of these two substances could be found in Altrenogest products as a result of the manufacturing process in a specific factory. Following the investigation some horse sport regulatory bodies have issued a warning regarding the use of Altrenogest.

The FEI has conferred with the Director of the FEI Central Laboratory and can confirm that, with the currently available information, it is permissible to continue to use Altrenogest product Regu-Mate Solution 2.2 mg/mL for mares as per the manufacturer’s instructions. The FEI Veterinary Department recommends that anyone using or planning to use the product on a mare should discuss this with their veterinarian.” 

Equestrian Australia wishes to update its members and clarify the use of altrenogest for non-racing competitions in Australia. The FEI’s statement specifically refers to Regu-Mate, which is the only form of altrenogest available in the United Kingdom. In Australia, the equivalent formulations registered for oral use in mares may be used provided it is administered following the manufacturer’s recommendations. Administration of doses not in compliance with such recommendations and normal dosing levels could result in an adverse analytical finding. Please note that the use of injectable products containing altrenogest is still not recommended.

A medication form for altrenogest is no longer required for FEI or EA competitions. All FEI competitors should remember that an FEI medication log book must be kept for all FEI horses to record any medications and supplements given during or outside of competition. The medication log books are not to be kept in the horse’s passport or handed to the vet delegate at events. The logbook may be requested by the FEI Tribunal in the event of an adverse analytical finding. Logbooks can be downloaded on the EA website: 

http://www.equestrian.org.au/sites/default/files/FEI%20Medication%20Treatment%20Logbook.pdf