The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has recently approved Gastrobim (omeprazole) oral paste for the treatment of gastric ulcers and prevention of gastric ulcer recurrence in horses and foals 4 weeks of age and older. Gastrobim is a proton pump inhibitor that works by blocking the pumps in the stomach lining that release stomach acid.
This medication is available by prescription only and contains the same active ingredient (omeprazole) as the brand-name drug product, Gastrogard, which was approved in 1999. The FDA has confirmed that Gastrobim is bioequivalent to the brand-name product.
For the treatment of gastric ulcers, Gastrobim should be given orally once daily for four weeks at a dosage of 1.8 mg/lb. body weight (4 mg/kg). To prevent the recurrence of gastric ulcers, continue treatment for at least an additional four weeks by administering Gastrobim at a daily maintenance dose of 0.9 mg/lb. (2 mg/kg).
Gastrobim is sponsored by Bimeda Animal Health Ltd. of Ireland and is known as the fastest-growing omeprazole product in Canada and Europe. It has been well-received by veterinarians and horse owners for its efficacy in treating gastric ulcers. Bimeda aims to provide an affordable and effective treatment option for equine gastric ulcers with the introduction of Gastrobim in the U.S. market.
To learn more about Gastrobim, you can refer to the Freedom of Information Summary available on the FDA website.