OsteO-3 represents a nutritional supplement recommended by veterinarians for dogs who suffer from arthritis or other health conditions that affect the joints. Keep in mind that this supplement does not only improve the health of the joints, but also their energy, mobility and strength.
Ingredients of OsteO-3
Below are listed the minimum proportions and amounts of the ingredients:
- Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) – 10mg
- Calcium – between 0.4 and 0.8 percent
- Creatine monohydrate – 500mg
- Crude fat – 2 percent
- Crude protein – 8 percent
- DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) – 12mg
- EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) – 18mg
- Glucosamine hydrochloride – 900mg
- MSM (methyl-sulfonyl-methane) – 800 mg
- Perna canaliculus - 300mg
- Phosphorous – 0.3 percent
- Sodium Chloride (salt)
- Vitamin E – 50IU
OsteO-3 also contains the following ingredients, which are listed according to the maximum proportions found in each tablet, if any:
- Alpha lipoic acid
- Crude fiber – 30 percent
- Grape seed extract
- Liver powder
- Magnesium stearate
- Manganese sulfate
- Marine lipid complex
- Moisture – 10 percent
- Selenium selenite
- Silica
- Stearic acid
- Sucrose
- Zinc sulfate
Most of these play an important role in the health of the joints. Glucosamine Hydrochloride and Perna Canaliculus increase the production of synovial fluid, which acts as a lubricant for the joints. These two ingredients also keep the cartilage in a good shape and inhibit joint degradation. Creatine monohydrate is used for increasing the energy levels in the muscles. As a result, both muscle strength and endurance are increased. MSM represents the ingredient that is used for pain management. Joint inflammation is usually accompanied by a strong sensation of pain, so the inclusion of this ingredient in OsteO-3 was necessary. EPA and DHA are Omega 3 fatty acids that increase even more the anti-inflammatory effect of the drug. Alpha lipoic acid, grape seed extract and vitamin E are powerful antioxidants that counteract the enzymatic damage done by free radicals.
Availability and Recommended Dosage of OsteO-3
OsteO-3 is available as chewable tablets or granules that can be administered either alone or with a meal. The dosage depends on the body weight of the dog. In addition, you must know that there is a recommended dosage for the initial period, which ranges from 4 to 6 weeks, as well as a recommended dosage for the maintenance period. During the first 4 to 6 weeks, the dosage is as follows:
- ¼ scoop or tablet for dogs weighing between 5 and 15 pounds
- ½ scoop or tablet for 15 to 30 pounds
- 1 scoop or tablet for 30 to 60 pounds
- 2 scoops or tablets for 60 to 100 pounds
- 2 ½ scoops or tablets for dogs exceeding 100 pounds
During the maintenance period, the dosage is reduced to half of the one administered in the initial period.
Adverse Reactions to OsteO-3
Glucosamine HCl, one of the main active ingredients of this nutritional supplement, has been compared to ibuprofen, as both have the ability to reduce the pain. According to the trials, the latter is also less effective and less safe than glucosamine HCl, which can cause the following side effects:
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Insulin resistance
This ingredient, along with the others contained by OsteO-3, may lead to other adverse reactions, particularly if the dog is hypersensitive or allergic to any of the substances. If the dog experiences any unusual symptoms, you must ask advice from a veterinarian. After reducing the dosage or recommending an alternative medication, the side effects tend to disappear.