Treating EPM

A new treatment option has been developed for horses suffering from equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM). Protazil, an alfalfa-based pellet containing an antiprotozoal agent, is meant to be top-dressed on an affected horse’s feed, making it easy for owners to administer the medication. The product requires a veterinarian’s prescription.

EPM is a neurologic disease caused by parasitic protozoa. Many affected horses show few or mild signs of disease, but serious cases cause neurologic impairment severe enough to require that horses be euthanized.