FDA approves generic pergolide tablets for equine Cushing disease

The FDA has approved pergolide tablets (Zygolide; Dechra) for controlling clinical signs associated with pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID) in horses, also known as equine Cushing disease. According to Dechra, the medication is a generic, bioequivalent option for horses suffering from the condition.

PPID, an age-related endocrine disorder, is characterized by the degeneration of neurons that affect the production and regulation of hormones, including adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH). Common clinical signs include a long, curly hair coat, delayed shedding, muscle loss, polydipsia, polyuria, lethargy, and laminitis. Some horses may also exhibit a rounded abdomen, exercise intolerance, abnormal sweating, and fat deposits above the eyes and on the top of the neck and tailhead.² Additionally, affected horses face higher risk of chronic infection and abscesses. These equines also have decreased wound healing and higher parasite burdens.²

In a news release announcing the approval, Dechra said pergolide tablets is an essential therapy, whose FDA approval expands access for one of the most common endocrine disorders in older horses.¹ Researchers estimate that approximately 20 to 33% of all horses develop PPID by the age of 20.³ According to the UC Davis Center School of Veterinary Medicine’s Center for Equine Health, the condition typically occurs in horses older than 15 years.² Still, cases of PPID have been documented in horses as young as 7 years of age.²

According to Dechra, their pergolide tablets come in a peppermint flavor and are scored around the entire tablet for splitting ease. Beginning this month, the therapy was made available to veterinarians at major online pharmacies across the United States. Currently, the medication is only available in the US.

The medication has not been evaluated in breeding, pregnant, or lactating horses. Adverse effects include loss of appetite, weight loss, lack of energy, and behavioral changes. According to Dechra, most cases of appetite loss are mild, though a temporary reduction in dose may be necessary in severe cases. Pergolide tablets is contraindicated in horses with hypersensitivity to pergolide mesylate or other ergot derivatives, said Dechra.¹

“The FDA approval of Zygolide brings to market a high-quality, cost-effective option to help make the management of PPID more accessible,” Greg Schmid, DVM, equine medical affairs lead of Dechra, said in the company news release.¹ “This therapy provides another option for horses living with the condition, including a pill structure with 360-degree scoring on all sides and a peppermint flavor profile, helping to reduce stress for both horses and their caretakers.”

References

1. Dechra announces FDA approval of Zygolide® (pergolide tablets) for the control of clinical signs associated with pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (equine Cushing’s disease) in horses. News release. Dechra. January 5, 2026. Accessed January 5, 2026. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260105450851/en/Dechra-Announces-FDA-Approval-of-Zygolide-pergolide-tablets-for-the-Control-of-Clinical-Signs-Associated-with-Pituitary-Pars-Intermedia-Dysfunction-Equine-Cushings-Disease-in-Horses
2. Young A, Berryhill E. Pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID). UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. March 23, 2020. Accessed January 5, 2026. https://ceh.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/health-topics/pituitary-pars-intermedia-dysfunction-ppid
3. Equine Cushing’s disease: Back to basics. January 15, 2018. Accessed January 5, 2026. https://ker.com/equinews/equine-cushings-disease-back-basics/#:~:text=Recognizing%20PPID,Laminitis.