Pergolide and colic side effect anyone else?

[Josette]

My large pony was recently started on Pergolide a few months ago. He initially was on 1/4 of a pill (tricky to cut this small) and then was increased to 1/2 pill daily. He has been on this dose for about 2 months and has colic twice within the past 4 weeks. I've owned him for 6 years and he has never had colic issues before started this medication. I looked up the side effects and it was mentioned for digestive upset. Has anyone else had this problem? I left a message for my vet today but am concerned what to do for the future. I understand the during fall months (Aug - Oct) that measuring ACTH may not be accurate. His previous reading before starting Pergolide was 90 so he is due for a followup lab.

[Srhorselady]

According to my vet the major "digestive" side effect of Pergolide is anorexia. I have had two on Pergolide for years with no colic issues. BTW one of mine on Pergolide is a mini and since I need a pretty small dose I get compounded and flavored powder. It's much easier to dose.

[Josette]

Thanks - vet coming out tomorrow for exam. She does not believe due to pergolide.....

[Hayburner]

How old is your pony?

My gelding has been on the Prascend for many years and he has not had any of the digestive issues nor did he go off his feed.

[Josette]

Pony just turned 17 in June. Vet came out and used a fecal occult blood test for ulcers which came back negative. I'm starting him on a Succeed Vet Formula probiotic and will also give him a sand clear product just in case. The colic resolved within 2 hours of my treating with an OTC anti-spasm paste and oral Banamine. I just do not know the cause. Hopefully I can prevent further events.....

[khall]

pergolide or prascend? My older mare has been on prascend since June 2015 and no issues with digestive problems thank goodness. I boarded an older Arab that was on pergolide suspension and then prascend for years, he coliced one time, a cecal impaction which I doubt was related to the medication. Pulled through the colic with heavy treatment by vet and several of us.

[Josette]

Pascend half tablet. He has another mild episode again today. Always between 4-5 pm after he gets the medication. He has been on the Succeed probiotic now for about 2 weeks. I just purchased a sand clear product and will start that as well. Leaving message with vet again tomorrow to let her know about this 3rd incident. I rode him the past 2 days but was concerned yesterday when he stumbled on me twice - kind of like he was not focused on his work. He is usually very energetic and forward so not sloppy with his feet. Some days he does somersaults in his turnout. I cannot figure out what is going on with him.....