Application of pale sulfonated shale oil in the treatment of sweet itch

The successful treatment of sweet itch in grass-kept horses, which is observed mainly between March and October, challenges both, Veterinarians and horse owners. The different symptoms and phases of this disease require the application of different active principles. Veterinarian and owner have available a large number of products which most often consider only partial aspects of the whole problem and, therefore, do not lead to satisfying results. Pale sulfonated shale oil (Helles Ammoniumbituminosulfonat DAC) is an active substance of natural origin which is distinguished by a broad pharmacological spectrum of efficacy. Anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-itching and wound healing promoting properties are proved. In principle, the multifunctionality of this active ingredient permits an integrated approach for treatment of all phases of this seasonal affliction. For further examination of individual positive experience reports in the present study 44 horses suffering from sweet itch were solely treated locally with pale sulfonated shale oil (Ichtho Vet (R) Gel). Administration took place two times daily in a 12-hour rhythm and the progress of the disease was documented for four weeks by the owners. The application was evaluated by the animal owner and, additionally, by the veterinarian regarding an improvement after a five-step score. With consistent application of the gel after four weeks an improvement was observed in 100 % of the cases with regard to the mentioned evaluation criterions. In 70 % it was a strong to very strong improvement. At deviations from the application scheme 18 % of all examined and treated patients did not experience any improvement. Besides distinctive improvement of the condition determined on the first day of treatment, pale sulfonated shale oil proved itself to be well applicable and resulted in minor side effects as dry skin or formation of scales only.