Horse supplements NZ

A 2025 crossover study in thoroughbred geldings found:

• After exercise, the MSM group showed a higher response in the genes that control immunity and cytokine signalling (a marker for inflammation), source:  onlinelibrary.wiley.com+15pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+15medicoherb.co.za+15reddit.com+2reddit.com+2reddit.com+2.
• Study conclusion: MSM helped regulate the genes in skeletal muscle related to immune and inflammatory responses after exercise—suggesting it may reduce inflammation and help speed up recovery.

2. In vitro cell protection using MSM

• Racehorse muscle cells showed a reduced stress-induced expression of genes (SDHA, HPRT1) triggered by cortisol exposure, source: pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
• Study conclusion: studies on oxidative stress show MSM may protect cells against cortisol-induced damage (a stress related inflammatory reaction) and support antioxidant pathways like glutathione which help to maintain healthy muscle.

3. Doping and pharmacokinetics of MSM

A study in two geldings given ~15 g twice daily over six days showed:

• MSM was detectable in urine and plasma for ~4.5 days after administration—important information for race horses who require holding periods, source:  horsereport.vetmed.ucdavis.edu+4pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+4pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+4.

• Currently MSM is ok to use for FEI competition horses 2025.

4. MSM as a joint supplement 

MSM is frequently included in joint-health supplements for its elemental sulphur, antioxidant properties, and potential anti-inflammatory effects.

• Most horse owners report MSM improving the comfort and overall joint movement in their horses. The most preferred form is pure MSM (used at greater than 10 g/day) which is considered by many horse owners as an inexpensive form of anti-inflammatory supplement.

• Oral MSM may have a supportive role for joint care in horses.

  • Clinical evidence for joint pain reduction is mostly extrapolated from human studies suggesting joint benefits. The benefits of reducing inflammation, acting as an antioxidant and being involved in building connective tissues, may suggest it therefore has potential for a positive effect in joint care.

Dose of an MSM supplement for horses:

Typical dose per 500 Kg horse:

10 -20 grams daily to reduce localized inflammation and muscle protection

Caution: There is potential for a digestive upset and nutrient imbalances if using high doses of MSM. Therefore, high doses are recommended short term, and it is recommended to monitor your horse closely, then reduce dosages (usually under 10 grams).

Summary of 6 promising MSM benefits as a supplement for horses

1. Anti-inflammatory effects – helps reduce inflammation by suppressing inflammatory cytokines. This may help arthritis, laminitis or sore horses post work out.
2. Pain relief – may reduce pain or discomfort, in muscles or joints, helpful for older horses or horses in heavy training.
3. Sulphur donor – sulphur is essential for collagen synthesis and connective tissues.
4. Antioxidant support – may support glutathione manufacture aiding recovery in muscles and protecting cellular integrity from oxidative stress after exercise
5. Improved flexibility -may help with joint mobility
6. Respiratory Support – some evidence to suggest it may be helpful to reduce inflammatory responses

Conclusion

MSM studies show promising anti-inflammatory and protective properties in horses—especially around exercise and muscle recovery.

Studies in human health support its use also for muscular and joint health.  More studies are required to explore it fully in horses.

NPC Health provide an ultra- pure form of MSM as supplement for horses, click here for more information: MSM supplement for horses and dogs | Reduce inflammation

NPC Health also provide other joint supplements that contain MSM in a synergistic formula alongside other important joint nutrients such as: Hydra-flex ALL HORSES | Equine joint supplement   and Hydra-flex Care Best Supplement for stiff horses