04/12/2024
Something I’m always asked about!
Of all the equine anti-doping tests we carried out last year, three quarters of violations were related to bute 😱
💊 Phenylbutazone (“bute”) is a controlled medication, meaning it shouldn’t be in your horse’s system at the time of competition due to its ability to affect performance.
⏱ Bute can remain in your horse’s system at detectable levels for around seven days, but the exact time will vary depending on factors such as his size, metabolic rate, fitness level and recent medical history. It’s always best to speak to your vet about the recommended withdrawal time for any prescribed treatment, which is the detection time plus an added safety margin, in order to reduce the risk of a positive doping test.
⚠ Competing your horse while he’s under the influence of bute is not only against the rules, but it’s also a welfare risk ⚠
Find out more about equine anti-doping on our website 👉 https://bit.ly/CleanSport_Equine
Photo: British Equestrian / Jon Stroud Media