USEF Horse Show Drug Rules Have Major Change (2013)
USEF has adopted a 12-hour rule. The overall dose limit for Dexamethasone has also been reduced. California horse show drug rules are also likely to change shortly.
With three exceptions the USEF has adopted a 12-hour rule starting December 1, 2014. This means that no medication may given to a horse closer than 12 hours before competing at a USEF Horse show.
There are only three exceptions to this rule: therapeutic fluids, antibiotics, and Dexamethasone (only for the treatment of hives).
If any drug or fluids is administered under the exceptions it must be administered by a veterinarian, must be followed by a declaration form being filed within an hour, and may not be given by anyone closer than 6 hours prior to competition.
The use of three drugs is substantially affected by this rule change.
Dexamethasone - maximum 24-hour dose has been decreased from 20mg/1000lb horse to 10mg/1000lb horse and must be administered in accordance with the new "12 Hour Rule" GR414. It can be given at six hours, but only by a veterinarian and only for treatment of hives.
Ketoprofen (Ketofen®) - maximum 24-hour dose 1.0 gram/1000lb horse remains the same, however, it must be no closer than 12 hours before competition.
Methocarbamol (Robaxin®) - maximum 24-hour dose 5.0 grams/1000 lb horse remains the same, however, must be administered within 12 hours prior to competition.
FEI medication rule changes have also been adopted.
Further Reading
To read the USEF's guidelines click here 2014 2014 USEF Drugs & Medications Guidelines
To read about these changes and changes to FEI guidelines click http://www.usefnetwork.com/news/10761/2013/11/27/important_changes_to_the_both_usef.aspx
or on the FEI Clean Sport webpage.
California medication rule changes to come soon
All horses showing competitions under AQHA, NRHA, USEF, or other disciplines in California must comply with the state drug rules. The law changed in August allowing the medication rules to be altered more easily via a regulatory process rather than having to change with approval of the state legislature and gubernatorial signature. Regulations have been proposed and should receive action in the next few days. I will try to update you when there is new information.