SUPPLEMENTING WITH URSOLIC ACID
By Tracie Grubb, DVM, CCRT, cVMA
The third supplement I frequently recommend addresses something many arthritis treatment plans overlook: muscle health.
Dogs with arthritis often lose muscle over time because pain reduces activity.
Ursolic acid is used to help support muscle preservation and development.
What Ursolic Acid Does
Ursolic acid may:
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Promote muscle protein synthesis
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Reduce muscle breakdown
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Improve muscle mass and strength
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Support overall mobility in dogs with arthritis
Natural Sources
Ursolic acid occurs naturally in several plants, including:
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Apple peels
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Rosemary
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Basil
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Cranberries
Mechanism of Action
Research suggests ursolic acid may activate signaling pathways involved in muscle growth and mitochondrial function while reducing genes associated with muscle atrophy.
In dogs with chronic orthopedic disease, stronger muscles help stabilize joints and improve overall mobility.
Veterinary Product
A commonly used veterinary formulation is Virbac’s Urosolyx and dosed once daily according to the dog’s weight. This product is available through many online sources and does not require a prescription.
