Altrenogest Injectable

Giving your pet an injection might feel intimidating at first, but with practice, it becomes routine. Follow these steps for safe and stress-free injections.

Get Your Supplies Ready

1. Medication vial or pre-filled syringe
2. Alcohol swabs
3. Sterile syringe & needle (if not pre-filled)
4. Sharps container for safe needle disposal

Drawing Up the Dose (if needed)

1. Clean the vial top with an alcohol swab
2. Attach needle to syringe
3. Pull in air equal to the dose
4. Insert needle into vial, push air in
5. Draw out the correct dose
6. Tap out air bubbles

Pick the Injection Site

1. Subcutaneous (under the skin): Loose skin between shoulder blades or side
2. Intramuscular (into muscle): As directed by your vet

Prep the Area

1. Pinch a fold of skin to form a “tent” (for subcutaneous). Wipe with alcohol if recommended.

Inject the Medication

1. Hold the syringe like a pencil
2. Insert the needle into the base of the skin tent at a 45° angle
3. Push the plunger slowly to inject

After the Injection

1. Remove the needle smoothly
2. Place it immediately in the sharps container (don’t recap)
3. Pat the area and give your pet praise or a treat

Safety Tips

1. Never reuse needles
2. Always dispose of used needles properly
3. Ask your vet for help if unsure

Altrenogest is an FDA-approved product for horses. According to the FDA-approved labeling, it is used to suppress estrus (heat) in mares. Veterinarians may also discuss it for synchronizing estrus within a group of mares. Your veterinarian determines the appropriate use for your horse.

At a pharmacological level, altrenogest is a progestin that mimics the effects of progesterone. It binds to progesterone receptors, which suppresses the release of gonadotropins from the pituitary gland; this inhibits follicle maturation and the onset of estrus. When the medication is discontinued, mares typically return to a predictable cycle.

The actions described here reflect the product's FDA-approved labeling; your veterinarian determines the appropriate use for your animal.

Prescription only. Use only under the direction of a licensed veterinarian. This information is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, prescribing or monitoring.

Altrenogest is associated with specific safety considerations for both the animal and the person administering the medication. Commonly observed effects in horses are minimal, though some individuals may exhibit mild changes in temperament or site-specific reactions if an injectable form is utilized. It is essential to consult your veterinarian if your mare has a history of uterine inflammation or infection, as progestins can potentially mask or exacerbate these conditions.

A critical aspect of using altrenogest is human safety, as the medication can be absorbed through the skin. Pregnant women or individuals with a history of certain hormone-dependent conditions should avoid direct contact with the product. Non-porous protective gloves (such as chemical-resistant nitrile or neoprene) are a standard recommendation during administration to prevent accidental exposure. Your veterinarian will provide comprehensive guidance on safe handling and any necessary monitoring for your horse. Contact your veterinarian promptly if you observe any unexpected physical or behavioral changes in your mare while she is receiving this prescription.