Cushing disease, also known as Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID), is a common endocrine disorder that affects horses, particularly older horses. The disorder is caused by a dysfunction of the pituitary gland, which leads to an overproduction of hormones and can cause a variety of symptoms such as weight loss, muscle wasting, and laminitis. In this blog post, we will explore the causes of Cushing disease in horses and how CBD can help provide relief.
The primary cause of Cushing disease in horses is an overproduction of a hormone called ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) by the pituitary gland. This overproduction leads to an increase in the production of other hormones such as cortisol, which can have a variety of negative effects on the horse’s body. Some of the most common symptoms of Cushing disease include weight loss, muscle wasting, laminitis, and a long, curly hair coat.
The traditional treatment for Cushing disease in horses is based on the administration of pergolide, a dopamine agonist that suppresses ACTH production. However, this medication can cause some side effects, and it needs to be administered daily for life, which can be a burden for horse owners.
Recently, there has been increasing interest in using CBD as a natural alternative to traditional medications for Cushing disease in horses. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in the hemp plant that has been shown to have a variety of health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and anti-pain properties.
One of the main ways that CBD can help horses with Cushing disease is by reducing inflammation. Inflammation is a major contributor to the development of Cushing disease, and reducing inflammation can help to slow the progression of the disorder. CBD works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating a variety of physiological processes including pain, mood, and sleep. When CBD is introduced into the body, it can help to balance the endocannabinoid system and reduce inflammation.
CBD can also help to reduce the symptoms of Cushing disease by providing pain relief. Laminitis, a common complication of Cushing disease, is a painful condition that can make it difficult for horses to move around. CBD has been shown to be an effective pain reliever and can help to reduce the pain associated with laminitis and other symptoms of Cushing disease.
It’s important to note that before giving your horse any CBD product, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian first. They can help you understand the proper dosage for your horse, as well as any potential interactions with other medications your horse may be taking.
In conclusion, Cushing disease is a common endocrine disorder that affects older horses. While traditional medication can be effective in treating Cushing disease, CBD is a natural alternative that has been shown to provide relief from inflammation and pain. If you’re looking for a natural alternative to traditional Cushing disease medication, we invite you to try our line of horse CBD granules. Our products are lab-tested for purity and potency, and are specially formulated to provide the best possible benefits for your equine companion. Order now and give your horse the relief they deserve!