New 4-in-1 treatment for treating superficial wounds

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Dechra Veterinary Products has released a new anaesthetic and antiseptic spray that provides 4-in-1 pain relief and wound care for horses with superficial skin wounds.  

 Equi-Solfen® is a ready-to-use, spray-on gel that provides immediate and lasting relief from acute pain, reduces bleeding, protects against infection and assists in wound healing. 

 It is readily available from equestrian stores, produce stores, rural stores or veterinary clinics without prescription.  

 Dechra Veterinary Products Business Unit Head, Ben Austin, says most superficial skin wounds, can be successfully treated by horse owners. 

 “Clean wounds within 4 – 6 hours by flushing thoroughly with running water or saline solution to reduce the risk of complication and infection,” he says.  

 “Horse owners may wish to apply a suitable wound ointment, then dress the wound with a firm bandage. 

 “Immobilisation dressings or box rest may be required to assist healing.” 

Equi-Solfen contains lignocaine and bupivacaine, two local anaesthetics; adrenaline, which reduces bleeding and slows the inflammatory cascade1 and cetrimide, an antiseptic and surfactant that helps to start the healing process and protect against infection. 

 “Equi-Solfen is specially formulated to help to seal and protect the skin wound for improved wound healing,” Ben says. 

Each 250 mL pack includes a spray applicator that turns the liquid formulation into a foaming gel that adheres to the wound. 

 Equi-Solfen can be applied to superficial skin wounds once-daily for up to seven days.  

 “Apply one squirt – about 1 mL – of Equi-Solfen per four square centimetres,” Ben says. 

 “Cover the entire wound area with spray, particularly wound edges, taking care not to spray the mouth, eyes or nostrils or to the point of run-off. 

 “After use, remove and rinse the applicator with water and turn the applicator nozzle to its closed position.  

 “Replace the blue cap on the bottle and store product and applicator nozzle separately.” 

The administration of Equi-Solfen to wounds is not intended to replace the need for attention of a veterinarian.  

 “Even small wounds, particularly those close to tendons or joints, can have serious complications,” Ben says.  

 “Often, the wound location and the tissues involved are more critical than the appearance of the wound.  

 “That’s why is always advisable to consult a veterinarian to determine the best treatment.  

 “If veterinary attention is required, be assured that many wounds can be closed in the field.  

 “Sometimes, your veterinarian may opt to leave the wound open, or may place a drain into the surgical site to help release fluids during healing.   

“Some wounds may require surgery or specialist treatment at a veterinary hospital.” 

 Always consult your veterinarian if the wound is bleeding heavily; involves the ears, nose or throat; deep; reveals tissue, muscle, tendon, ligament or bone; close to a joint or tendon and leaking a clear discharge; inflamed (i.e. hot or swollen); infected (i.e. significant or offensive discharge); growing in size; or not healing or tissue within the wound becomes ‘proud’ (i.e. it stands out from the wound). 

 For more information, about treating superficial wounds on horses, visit equisolfen.com.au or contact your veterinarian. 

Source: 1. Lomax, S. et al. (2013). Duration of action of a topical anaesthetic formulation for pain management of mulesing in sheep. Aust. Vet. J. 91:160-167. ®Registered trademark of Animal Ethics Pty Ltd. ©2025 Dechra Veterinary Products (Australia) Pty Ltd. DEC25304.  The information provided in this article is intended as a guide only. Information contained in this article has been provided by the manufacturer/ You should not rely on the information in this article, and it should not be considered advice. You should seek professional advice regarding relevant factors specific to your situation. This article does not take into account variable conditions that may impact performance. Always read and follow label directions before using any product in this article. To the maximum extent permitted by law, Combined Rural Traders Pty Limited and its related associated entities will not be liable for any loss or damage suffered by any person arising out of any reliance on any information contained in this article.