It was a pleasure and privilege to be invited to present at the London Vet Show 2025, in association with the Vet Osteoarthritis Alliance (VOA) and our UK distribution partner, Nupsala. Sharing the stage with Dr. Matt Brunke DVM, we explored the latest science and clinical experience around 2.5% iPAAG (injectable Polyacrylamide Hydrogel) in osteoarthritis (OA) therapy. For those who missed it, our talks are now available on demand.
Key Take-Home Learnings
1. Understanding OA and the Synovium
- OA is not just an “old dog disease” – it affects up to 40% of dogs, including juveniles, and is often underdiagnosed and undertreated.
- The synovial membrane plays a central role in joint health and OA pathogenesis. Early synovial changes drive pain and disease progression, often before radiographic changes are visible.
2. The Science Behind 2.5% iPAAG
- 2.5% iPAAG is a patented, drug-free hydrogel that physically restructures the synovial tissue, restoring elasticity and reducing inflammation. (Wimmer, 2025).
- Its unique mechanism targets the synovium, breaking the vicious cycle of pain and synovitis, and supporting long-term cartilage health. (Contino, 2025)
- Clinical and laboratory studies show that iPAAG-treated joints regain viscoelastic properties similar to healthy controls, with less activation of pain and inflammation pathways. (Pazzanite, 2025).
3. Evidence-Based Clinical Application
- Robust clinical evidence supports the safety and efficacy of 2.5% iPAAG in both canine and equine OA, with significant improvements in pain, function, and quality of life.
- In a UK study of 166 dogs, 82% of owners rated their dogs as “somewhat better” or “much better” post-treatment, with nearly half able to reduce or discontinue NSAIDs and other therapies.
- Early intervention, especially in young dogs with joint dysplasia (elbow, hips or tarsus) or post-surgical OA (stifle TPLO surgery) —delivers long-term outcomes.
4. Practical Tips for Vets
- Proactive screening for OA in every exam, especially in juveniles, is key. Look for subtle signs: changes in gait, posture, nail wear, and muscle mass.
- Advanced diagnostics, including digital gait analysis and functional imaging, can help identify early disease and monitor response to therapy.
2.5% iPAAG fits as a targeted synovial therapy within a multimodal OA management plan, complementing weight management, exercise, and other interventions.
5. Looking Ahead
The future of OA therapy is proactive, evidence-based, and focused on modifying disease—not just managing symptoms.
Ongoing research and long-term safety data continue to support the use of 2.5% iPAAG as a valuable tool in the veterinary OA toolkit.
Thank you to the VOA, Nupsala, and all colleagues who contributed to this event. For those interested, our full lectures are available on demand—please reach out for access or further discussion.
