Canine Research

Canine Research with Arthramid

CLINICAL SAFETY & EFFICACY

One Health is a strategy that emphasizes the collaborative efforts of multiple disciplines working locally, nationally, and globally to achieve optimal health for humans, animals, and the environment.

Contura International A/S (Contura), the manufacturer of Arthramid®, is proud to be a One Health company focused on hydrogel solutions for a range of conditions that impact both humans and animals. Contura provides a wide range of 2.5% injectable polyacrylamide (2.5 iPAAG) products and is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for patients of all species. Backed by more than 20 years of research and development, Contura is committed to delivering the highest quality products for patients and those who care for them.

NOTE: Arthramid® is a registered S4 for the treatment of lameness in horses (APVMA No. 86728). Use in non-equine species is currently extra-label and at the veterinarian’s discretion.

Canine Clinical Data

ABSTRACTS AND PILOT DATA

Elbow Osteoarthritis: A Pilot Study

Design: Non-blinded prospective observational clinical study
Method: 20 client-owned Labrador Retriever dogs with evidence of moderate to severe elbow OA (using radiography, computer tomography, and arthroscopy) and clinically lame were enrolled
Treatment: 1 ml of 2.5% iPAAG was injected into the worst elbow joint via intra-articular injection
Response to treatment was evaluated by the following at 4 weeks:
- Gait4Dog gait analysis
- HALO goniometry
- AimOA
- Clinical findings
Results:
- In 75% of patients 2.5% iPAAG significantly improved lameness during the first 4 weeks
  Gait Analysis showed significant improvement in weight-bearing pressure between baseline and
  week 4 (p = 0.007)
- Elbow Flexion – HALO (p = 0.04)
- Pain Parameters – AIM OA Sys (p = 0.02)
- Limb Function – AIM OA Sys (p = 0.001)*
Conclusions: A 1mL injection of 2.5% iPAAG into a moderate to severe arthritic elbow does have a statistically significant positive effect on physical improvement in elbow osteoarthritis, including reducing degree of lameness, reduced pain scores and improvement in elbow flexion.

*A p value of less than 0.05 is considered clinically significant

Safety & Efficacy of 2.5% Polyacrylamide Hydrogel

Design: Evaluation of safety and efficacy of 2.5% polyacrylamide hydrogel (2.5% iPAAG) intra-articular injections in dogs diagnosed with osteoarthritis (OA)
Method: Data was collected through an anonymous online survey distributed by 4 veterinary practices to owners whose dogs were treated with 2.5% iPAAG. The survey collected responses from 100 owners, reflecting their experience with a total of 150 individual injections across various joints. Dosing in most cases was 0.5—1.0mL
Results:
- 85% experienced symptom relief post-injection
- 63% reduced or discontinued use of other medications
- 44% reduced or discontinued use of NSAIDs
- 10% experienced short-term side effects of which transient injection site soreness was most reported
- 90% of respondents indicated they would use 2.5% iPAAG again if recommended by a veterinarian
Conclusions:
- 2.5% iPAAG injections are generally effective and well tolerated for managing canine OA, providing significant symptom relief and reducing reliance on other pain medications and therapies.
- The treatment has shown versatility in being used successfully across various joint types and combinations.

Observational Assessment: After Injection with 2.5% iPAAG

Design: Prospective observational clinical study
Method: 50 dogs with 102 individual procedures took part in the study
Parameters: Measurements included:
- Lameness at a walk
- Lameness at a trot
- Pain on manipulation
- Range of motion
- General functional disability
Measurements: were taken on days: 0, 30, 60, 90, 180, 360 and 390
Conclusions:
- Majority of cases showed 75% or more improvement in the Veterinary Orthopedic Examination
- There was a progressive improvement in the results through Day 30, Day 60 and Day 90 examinations, indicating that treatment outcomes improve with time, up to 90 days before stabilizing.
- 67% of the dogs treated were able to reduce or discontinue systemic analgesics

One Hydrogel. One Health.

HYDROGELS FOR LIFE

Contura has three separate business units that have developed three unique brands to target the treatment of various species and conditions. Despite having different indications, all of our 2.5% iPAAG products share a common foundation.

They are known for their long history of safety, effectiveness, and improving the quality of life for both human and animal patients worldwide.

Our One Health Portfolio

Arthrosamid

Intended for symptomatic treatment of adult human patients with knee osteoarthritis, Arthrosamid® is changing the standard of care for knee osteoarthritis. Arthrosamid® is approved for use in the UK, EU and Canada. Significant improvements in pain, stiffness and function lasting up to 48 months are reported following Arthrosamid® injection.

Arthrosamid Website

Bulkamid

Used as a urethral bulking agent for the treatment of female urinary incontinence where the stress component is significant. With a robust safety profile, Bulkamid® has shown clinical results and durability for up to at least 7 years.

Bulkamid Website

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COURSES & EVENTS

Joint After Administration of Arthramid

The Synovial Membrane Matters

SYNOVITIS, A CYCLE WORTH STOPPING

Arthramid is a patented 2.5% injectable polyacrylamide hydrogel (iPAAG). Administered through intra-articular joint injection, it integrates into the synovium of the joint, improving function and resolving lameness.
Arthramid goes beyond conventional therapies, employing dynamic bio-scaffold technology to safely and sustainably manage osteoarthritis.

LEARN MORE

How Arthramid Works

2.5% iPAAG targets the synovial membrane directly. Once injected, it integrates into the synovial membrane within approximately two weeks.

KEY POINTS

Bio-mechanical support: Reinforces the synovial membrane.
Restored elasticity and strength: Reduces stiffness and fibrosis.
Improved joint fluid quality: Modulates the inflammatory response, breaking the OA cycle.

By restoring joint homeostasis, Arthramid delivers long-term benefits to horses and their owners.

Key Features of Arthramid

Patented 2.5% iPAAG technology: Effective for joint lameness in early and late stages of OA.
Proven efficacy: Backed by clinical trials across multiple species with ongoing research.
Bio-scaffold action: Restores synovial health.
Long-lasting results: Sustained soundness and lame-free outcomes.
Safe multi-joint treatment: Treat multiple joints in the same animal.
Extensive research: Over 20 years of studies in horses and humans, with ongoing R&D from Contura.

Start your journey to better joint health care today

Frequently Asked Questions

Dosage recommendations

Arthramid is supplied in a pre-filled 1mL syringe sealed via a Luer lock fitting.

Arthramid should be administered via a sterile 20-23g needle using aseptic injection technique protocols to prevent contamination of the injection site.

The dose injected into a joint is at the discretion of the veterinarian and may vary depending on the volume of the joint and/or the severity or duration of the disease.

Large Joint
Shoulder, elbow, hip or stifle
1.0 to 2.0 mL

Medium Joint
Carpus or Tarsus
0.5 to 1.0 mL

Small Joint
Inter-phalangeal joint
0.25 to 0.5 mL

Post-Injection Recommendations

48 HOURS OF REST
As with any intra-articular injections, 48 hours of rest is advised. Occasionally, some dogs may experience local pain and/or mild edema at the injection site. NSAIDs and ice can be used to manage any discomfort. This is a transient response and should resolve within 2-3 days.

WEEKS CONTROLLED EXERCISE

Remembering the structural mechanism of action, it is important to maintain calm, controlled exercise during the initial product integration period. Leash walks, gradually increasing in length, are permitted. Rough play, running, and jumping should be avoided.

CONTINUE REHAB
Patients currently receiving rehabilitation or physiotherapy should continue their program. However, avoiding additional strain on treated joints is still advised for at least 2 weeks following treatment.

CONCURRENT REHAB MODALITIES
Based on currently available data, we do not recommend the use of shockwave therapy on the treated joint for a period of 6 weeks post injection. Neither do we recommend the use of laser therapy on or over the treated joint for a period of 2 weeks.

RETURN TO NORMAL ACTIVITY
“Normal activity level” will vary for each patient. It is important to consider each patient’s baseline activity level prior to treatment. Overexertion and low fitness can lead to secondary injury. Age, weight, and severity of disease may all impact patient’s return to increased activity.

RECHECKS AND REINJECTION
Rechecks are recommended at 6 to 8 weeks post-treatment. While a single treatment is often adequate, a small number of cases may benefit from a top-up dose. In cases that have not responded, it is important to reassess the accuracy of the diagnosis

How to recognise osteoarthritis (OA) pain in dogs?

In the United States, Osteoarthritis (OA) is estimated to impact nearly 40% of all dogs. While commonly associated with older dogs, research indicates 20% of dogs as young as one year old can suffer from this debilitating disease. While damage to the articular cartilage is a classic indicator of advanced OA, synovitis is becoming more widely recognized as the key driver for the pain and inflammation associated with OA.

Typical signs of OA in dogs include:

Stiffness, especially after resting or in the morning
Difficulty rising, climbing stairs, or jumping onto furniture or into the car
Lameness or limping
Reduced willingness to play or exercise
Changes in behavior, such as irritability or withdrawal
Visible discomfort or signs of pain when touched or during movement

Recognizing these signs early is crucial for effective management.

How do I diagnose arthritis?

An accurate diagnosis of OA begins with a thorough and comprehensive physical and orthopedic exam. Pet owners may consider taking videos of their pet(s) at home to capture “normal” examples of day-to-day activity and signs of pain.

Additional modalities to consider for more accurate diagnosis include:

Radiography
Ultrasound
CT, MRI, or other advanced imaging
Arthroscopy

Cases suitable for Arthramid treatment are those in which synovitis or OA has been diagnosed and localized to a specific synovial joint(s). It is essential to rule out any other underlying cause of lameness including fragmentation, fractures, systemic disease or other unknown factors such as local or systemic infection. Once these pathologies are resolved, treatment is appropriate.

What is the impact of synovitis and osteoarthritis on the quality of life of dogs?

Synovial inflammation (synovitis) causes synovial fluid to become less viscous and of poor quality. Inflammatory mediators, when present in the synovial fluid, result in a chronic state of synovitis and capsulitis. If left untreated, this will damage the articular cartilage and progress to irreversible OA over time. Synovitis is widely recognized as the primary source of the pain and inflammation of OA.

Chronic pain associated with osteoarthritis may impact several aspects of a dog’s life simultaneously, including gait and movement, sleep, cognitive abilities, and relations, both to their human family and other pets.

How is Arthramid different than other arthritis treatments?

Arthramid is a 2.5% injectable polayacrylamide hydrogel that acts as a dynamic tissue scaffold supporting the body’s natural immune response. After intra-articular injection, Arthramid adheres to the synovial lining, allowing the synovial tissue to grow into and through the hydrogel. Because macrophages are unable to phagocytose Arthramid, the hydrogel persists in the synovial membrane.

CELLULAR INFILTRATION & SCAFFOLDING
Acting as a scaffold, Arthramid integrates into the synovial membrane, restoring its function through improved mechanical properties, which in turn reduces inflammation and promotes joint health. A healthy synovial membrane provides benefits to the structure and function of the joint.

In many cases, improvements in joint capsule stability, synovial fluid composition, and slowing of the OA progression can be observed in response to Arthramid injection. A healthy synovium provides lubrication, nourishment and immune cells that protect the joint against infection, remove inflammatory mediators, and re-establish joint function.

LASTING, STRUCTURAL SUPPORT
Two weeks after the injection, Arthramid is fully integrated into the synovium, providing long-lasting restorative benefit to the synovial membrane. Restoration of synovial health by Arthramid, reduces pain and inflammation, which helps reestablish joint function and homeostasis.

How safe is Arthramid?

Arthramid is a biocompatible, non-resorbable hydrogel that has been used extensively in multiple species, including dogs and horses. It has a low incidence of adverse events, with most reactions being mild and transient. The product induces a low-grade, macrophage-driven response that responds well to anti-inflammatory treatment.

How can I learn to use Arthramid and inject joints?

Contura is committed to helping educate and resource veterinarians on how to use our product. For more information, head over to our resources page for:

Treatment Guides
Clinical Studies
Courses and Events
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Case Reports
Podcasts and Videos
Testimonials
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How do I order Arthramid?

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Testimonials

Dr. Rachel Horsley

DOGWOOD VETERINARY HOSPITAL

“Arthramid should be a go-to for earlier OA management in small animals. It’s safe, long-lasting, and supports healthier joints.”

Dr. Julie Letosky

UP AND RUNNING CANINE REHABILITATION

“Arthramid has transformed how I treat osteoarthritis. It’s easy to administer, highly effective, and has redefined my approach to post-op recovery and OA management.”

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