Betamethasone and Medina Spirit: What You Need to Know

The Kentucky Derby: A Classic Return

The Kentucky Derby made its grand return this year, resuming its traditional date and welcoming spectators back to Churchill Downs in Louisville, KY. Enthusiastic fans adorned in their finest attire flocked to the event, eager to witness the competition for the coveted $3 million prize. Among the 20 horses that charged from the starting gate, Bob Baffert's Medina Spirit, a horse bought for just $1,000, emerged victorious in the 147th Kentucky Derby.

Post-Race Controversy: Betamethasone in Medina Spirit’s System

Understanding Betamethasone

Medina Spirit’s post-race drug test revealed 21 picograms of betamethasone in his system. While Baffert denies that Medina Spirit had betamethasone, a picogram being a trillionth of a gram suggests it might not significantly affect performance. Despite this, it is illegal for horses to race with betamethasone in their system. So, what exactly is betamethasone, and why is it significant in horse racing?

What is Betamethasone?

Betamethasone, commonly used in racing, is a corticosteroid known as BETAVET (Betamethasone Sodium Phosphate). This drug is typically injected into a horse's joints or bloodstream to reduce inflammation. It can also be administered topically, orally, or under the skin to treat inflamed soft tissue.

Dr. Mary Scollay, Executive Director of the Lexington Racing Medication and Testing Consortium, explains, "There is an antibiotic betamethasone spray used to treat wounds or skin irritation. However, we lack data on its concentration in blood or urine.” Betamethasone is classified as a Class C drug with a 14-day withdrawal time before a race if injected. Therefore, if a trainer uses BETAVET, it must be done at least 14 days before the race.

The Technicalities of Betamethasone

Safety and Regulation

Dr. Scollay clarifies that betamethasone is not inherently harmful but requires regulation around race times to ensure the safety and welfare of the horse. Anti-inflammatories like betamethasone can mask symptoms of injury, potentially leading to more severe problems if not addressed promptly. She also notes that if betamethasone cream is applied topically, a horse might ingest it if it licks the wound. “I don’t have data on the concentration of topical use,” Scollay adds. “Concentration alone without information on dose, route, and timing of administration does not provide a complete picture.”

Guidelines for Topical Use

Currently, there are no specific guidelines or restrictions for topical use, which means trainers and owners have more freedom in its application. Scollay suggests that the focus should be on the horse’s condition rather than just the medication used.

Penalties for Betamethasone Use

Consequences for Trainers and Owners

The penalties for a horse testing positive for betamethasone are significant. For trainers, a first offense results in a $1,000 fine, with a second offense leading to a $1,500 fine and a 15-day suspension. For owners, a first-time offense results in disqualification and loss of the purse, with the horse needing to pass another drug test before competing again. A second offense leads to further disqualification, loss of purse, and a 45-day veterinarian’s list for the horse.

Current Status of Medina Spirit’s Case

As of May 16th, Churchill Downs had not yet ruled on the disqualification of Medina Spirit or Bob Baffert from the Derby. They await results from a split sample test, which may take several weeks. If Medina Spirit's win is forfeited, he would be the second horse to be disqualified from the Kentucky Derby for a banned substance.

Natural Alternatives for Joint Health

ExcelEQ ProElite: A Plant-Based Solution

At Excel Supplements, we offer natural alternatives for managing joint pain and overall health in horses. Our ExcelEQ ProElite supplement features a blend of plant-based omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 acids from Camelina sativa and CamOlive. This supplement supports joint mobility, muscle development, skin and coat health, and aids in the digestion of nutrients. Just two ounces of ExcelEQ ProElite daily can provide all these benefits.

ExcelRescue: Topical Healing Salve

For topical applications, consider our ExcelRescue salve. This all-natural product promotes healing for scratches, abrasions, minor cuts, and open wounds. It contains antioxidants, plant-based omega acids, Camelina sativa, beeswax, honey, and avocado oil. ExcelRescue also supports new hair growth with its vitamin E content. Safe for use on any part of your horse, it’s ideal for performance horses and won’t affect competition.

Update on Bob Baffert

As of May 17th, Bob Baffert and horses in his program are ineligible for races affiliated with the New York Racing Association. For more information on Baffert's suspension, visit NYRA's official site.

Sources:

• Dr. Mary Scollay's Interview: Information about betamethasone and its regulations was sourced from an interview with Dr. Mary Scollay, Executive Director of the Lexington Racing Medication and Testing Consortium, conducted by Horse Racing Nation (HRN).

• Penalties and Regulations: Details about the penalties for betamethasone use and racing regulations are based on standard industry practices and regulatory guidelines.

• Excel Supplements Products: Descriptions of ExcelEQ ProElite and ExcelRescue are based on product information provided by Excel Supplements.

• Churchill Downs and NYRA Updates: Current status updates on Bob Baffert and Medina Spirit’s case are based on news releases and official updates from Churchill Downs and the New York Racing Association (NYRA).