FDA clears first generic pergolide tablet for horses with PPID

Zygolide, a newly approved generic pergolide tablet for horses with pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction, or PPID, is now entering the equine market as a lower-cost alternative to Prascend. The FDA announced the approval on January 9, 2026, and the agency’s freedom of information summary shows the product, sponsored by Dechra Veterinary Products, was approved on December 19, 2025, as the first generic pergolide tablet for horses. Zygolide is indicated for control of clinical signs associated with equine Cushing’s disease, comes in 1 mg peppermint-flavored tablets, and is dosed orally starting at 2 mcg/kg once daily, with titration up to 4 mcg/kg. Promotional materials highlighted in The Horse emphasize palatability, half-scored tablets, and support for consistent daily administration. (fda.gov)

Why it matters: For equine veterinarians, the arrival of the first FDA-approved generic pergolide could improve access and adherence in a disease that often requires lifelong treatment and dose adjustments. FDA documents show Zygolide was approved based on bioequivalence to Prascend, while the label and product insert underscore practical handling points, including not crushing tablets and using caution when splitting them. That matters because PPID management depends not just on prescribing pergolide, but on keeping horses on therapy, monitoring endocrine response, and adjusting dose over time. Current Equine Endocrinology Group guidance continues to recommend pergolide as the cornerstone of PPID treatment, with reassessment of clinical signs and endocrine testing after treatment starts. (animaldrugsatfda.fda.gov)

What to watch: Watch for how quickly Zygolide gains distribution, whether pricing meaningfully shifts prescribing patterns, and whether veterinarians report better compliance in horses that are difficult to medicate. (equinefacilitydesign.com)