Devil’s Claw joins FEI’S list of banned substances

Devils claw banned by FEI. Image of Julien Epaillard (FRA) riding Dubai du Cedre in the second qualifying Competition - Individuals and Final Teams at the FEI Jumping European Championship Milano 2023 Copyright ©FEI/Leanjo de Koster

Devil’s Claw joins the list of FEI banned substances  – Competitors and owners are responsible for keeping themselves up to speed with the current list of prohibited competition substances.

If competing under FEI rules, the active ingredient, Devil’s Claw, was moved onto the governing body’s controlled medication list, this happened in 2016. This means Devil’s Claw is a banned substance under this body.


Why is Devil’s Claw banned?

Devil’s Claw has been used to help ease muscle pain in horses for many years. Surprisingly, it has also been used to treat arthritis in humans! However, the herb contains harpagoside, an anti-inflammatory, which is now on the FEI’s banned list of substances.

What is a suitable alternative to Devil’s Claw?

Vetrofen Healthy and Vetrofen Intense offer a safe (clear to use under FEI rules) and effective alternative to any Devil’s Claw products, as well as being an amazing value.


Devil’s Claw has commonly been used to help ease muscle pain in horses for years. Surprisingly, it has also been used to treat arthritis in humans! However, the herb contains harpagoside, an anti-inflammatory, which is now on the FEI’s banned list of substances.

Riders and owners are urged to check all their supplements properly, so they don’t find themselves potentially using banned substances without even being aware. The list is updated by the FEI annually.

Vetrofen Healthy and Vetrofen Intense offer a safe (clear to use under FEI rules) and effective alternative to any Devil’s Claw products, as well as being an amazing value.

Devil's Claw alternative, Vetrofen from animalife
Devil’s Claw alternative, Vetrofen from animalife

Vetrofen Intense contains a natural antioxidant blend that targets both comfort and recovery in all horses and can be used as an alternative to Devil’s Claw. It has been scientifically formulated to help horses and ponies when they require support in dealing with intense activity, the natural ageing process, and recovery after exercise.

Vetrofen Intense supports the body’s inflammatory response to aid recovery to short terms problems such as bruising, strains, or injury as well as supporting function and flexibility in joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons, all of which can detract from performance.

An everyday-use supplement, it has been designed to give support and improved comfort and mobility in active or ageing horses. The supplement helps to provide additional antioxidant nutrients to support the body’s inflammatory response mechanisms, as well as provide comfort and greater flexibility in joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons.  The concentrated and varied antioxidant profile of Vetrofen Healthy works to promote overall well-being and quality of life for your horse, representing a unique and proven approach to managing comfort and recovery.

Both products have been scientifically formulated to help, support and enhance your horse’s performance, whether at competitions or simply for use at home and offer a regulated alternative to Devil’s Claw.