Arthramid: A New Tool in Treating Canine and Feline Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common and challenging conditions we see in dogs and cats. Managing this chronic, degenerative disease requires a multimodal approach, often combining lifestyle changes, medications, and targeted joint therapies. One of the most exciting tools now available for companion animals is Arthramid (2.5% polyacrylamide hydrogel), a long-acting injectable treatment designed to improve joint function and reduce pain.

I’ve been using Arthramid for three years (since October 2022), both as a standalone therapy and in combination with other injectables like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and corticosteroids. It’s become a valuable part of my treatment arsenal for managing OA in both dogs and cats.

What is Arthramid?

Arthramid is a 2.5% cross-linked polyacrylamide hydrogel injected directly into the affected joint. Unlike other injectables that aim to reduce inflammation or lubricate the joint, Arthramid works by integrating into the synovial membrane, promoting a healthier joint environment and reducing chronic inflammation over time.

What sets Arthramid apart is its long duration of action. A single injection can provide months, and in many cases, over a year, of clinical improvement, helping to restore mobility and comfort without the need for frequent treatments.

A One Health Perspective: Used Safely in People for Years

The same 2.5% polyacrylamide hydrogel technology used in Arthramid has been safely used in human medicine for decades, reinforcing its clinical value and safety profile:

• Bulkamid: Used for over 15 years in the treatment of urinary incontinence in women
• Aquamid: Previously used as a facial filler in cosmetic dermatology
• Arthrosamid: Now used in human medicine for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis in Europe and Canada

These human applications demonstrate that polyacrylamide hydrogel is biocompatible, non-resorbable, and well tolerated across species. Arthramid is truly a One Health device, with supporting data across veterinary and human medicine, highlighting its potential as a trusted long-term option in the management of joint disease.

Clinical Experience: Safe and Effective

Over the past three years, I’ve administered Arthramid to many canine and feline patients with varying stages of OA. In my experience:

• Arthramid is well tolerated, with only rare, transient joint soreness reported after injection, something we can occasionally see with any intra-articular therapy.
• It performs well as a solo therapy but also integrates seamlessly with PRP or corticosteroids for more complex or advanced cases.
• Many patients experience improved mobility, reduced pain, and decreased reliance on daily medications following treatment.

As with any therapy, success depends on appropriate patient selection, joint-specific evaluation, and a tailored rehab plan.

Who Might Benefit Most from Arthramid?

While Arthramid can help a wide range of patients with osteoarthritis, it may be especially beneficial in earlier stages of joint disease, when synovitis (inflammation of the joint lining) is the dominant driver of pain.

Common cases where Arthramid is particularly helpful include:

• Elbow dysplasia: in all stages of the disease
• Hip dysplasia: to delay surgical intervention and improve comfort
• Knee OA and post cruciate ligament surgery
• Shoulder OA and biceps tenosynovitis
• Carpal and hock arthritis
• Cats with early or advanced OA, where options are often limited

It’s also an excellent option for NSAID-sensitive pets or owners looking for a long-lasting, drug-free treatment.

Here’s an example of a patient of mine:

Macie is a 3-year-old, high energy yellow lab. Bred to run and retrieve, random bouts of limping started hindering her enjoyment of life and ability to do what she loved around 2 years old. After undergoing a CT scan of her elbows, it was determined Macie, even at such a young age, had elbow OA due to elbow dysplasia. Surgery didn’t seem to be the best option for her care, so the decision was made to inject both her elbows with Arthramid in July 2024. The goal was to provide her more comfort, elbow stability and improve her OA symptoms without needing to start daily pain meds, such as NSAIDs. Now fifteen months later, Macie is enjoying life, with no obvious limp or pain, and has successfully lost 8 lbs. due to her increased activity level. 

You can see her limping here in the video before her injections

And how well she is doing now

Is Arthramid Right for Your Pet?

If your dog or cat is dealing with arthritis pain, whether it’s early inflammation or more advanced degeneration, Arthramid may be part of a customized treatment plan to reduce pain, restore function, and improve quality of life.

To learn more or schedule a consultation, call 301-926-3300 or email SportsMed@VRAVet.com.

Let’s keep your pets moving comfortably—for the long run.