The FDA has approved the first and only medication designed to improve the quality of repair to injured or “bowed” tendons. Bapten (beta-aminopropionitrile fumarate), manufactured by Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, is labeled for use in treating superficial digital flexor tendon injuries. While it does not shorten the time needed for recuperation, it does promote proper tendon healing and repair that allows for a “more athletically functional repaired tendon” when the healing process is completed.

After more than seven years of study, including FDA-regulated field trials at various sites and universities across the country, Bapten now is available to the general public through their veterinarians.

Collagen is what the body produces to repair tendons. According to the research, severe injury to the equine superficial digital flexor tendon usually produces a scar composed of randomly aligned and cross-linked collagen fibers (like dropping a box of toothpicks that land every-which-way). The repaired tendon often is weaker and becomes thickened and shortened, resulting in decreased motion. By inhibiting the cross linking of newly formed collagen, Bapten allows for the fibers to align more naturally in parallel rows. The treatment must be conducted along with a carefully controlled and monitored exercise program.

Officials with Boehringer Ingelheim and researchers who worked closely with Bapten are quick to point out that the drug by itself is not a miracle cure