Maxi/Guard Zn7 Equine Wound Care - is the first natural topical that provides substantial anti-pruritic, anti-microbial, and wound healing benefits, allowing veterinarians to reduce their steroid and/or antibiotic therapy. Technically, Zn7 Equine is zinc complexed with two amino acids in neutralized form. Veterinary and medical journals offer substantial documentation that zinc has been used from antiquity to the present for its anti-pruritic and wound healing benefits. Calamine lotion, modern medicine's most popular anti-pruritic, is a zinc-based topical. Zinc oxide, a very popular skin healer and protector, is of course zinc-based, but is only 20% bioavailable and not water soluble. How Does it Work? - Zn7 Equine is the result of 10 years of research at a major university. After trials with over 130 combinations of zinc ion with amino acids, a select few were found that increased the zinc solubility. The amino acids (L-lysine and Taurine) and zinc form a complex bond that inhibits zinc precipitation in the neutral pH (6.8 - 7.2) range. Zinc is an essential trace element and is a component of about 300 metalloenzyme systems. Many of these enzymes play key roles in extra-cellular matrix remodeling, wound healing, connective tissue repair, inflammation, and cell proliferation. The amino acids utilized are L-lysine and Taurine. L-lysine is involved in collagen cross-linking, has been used in herpes therapy, and helps with the formation of antibodies. Taurine, a sulfur amino acid, plays an essential role in maintaining zinc levels in serum. It has been shown that when solutions or ointments contain zinc gluconate and amino acids, zinc is easily transported across plasma membranes. It is well established that only normal zinc-sufficient cells play a key role in physiological and biochemical functions of the body. Helpful Hint - Maxi/Guard Zn7 Equine Wound Care Formula (4 ounce spray for dermal application) contains no intentional ingredients which could result in a positive blood or urine analytical test for non-permitted substances in race or show horses. The Zn7 ingredient list includes deionized water, zinc gluconate, carboxymethylcellulose, taurine, L-lysine, methylparaben, and propylparaben. These ingredients are generally natural having comparable endogenous counterparts and are not targeted during post-race testing. Zn7 presents no risk of resulting in a positive test for non-permitted substances. Usage - Maxi/Guard Zn7 Equine wound care formula should be prescribed for the following types of wounds or cases: 1. A broad spectrum of skin and flesh wounds where you need to reduce your steroid and/or antibiotic demand by using a natural anti-pruritic, anti-microbial skin care topical. 2. Skin abrasions and lacerations, both above and below the knee or hock. 3. Wounds located over soft tissue and muscle masses. 4. Traumatic wounds of the skin where suturing is not possible. 5. Edges of sutured wounds. 6. Full thickness cast sores. 7. As an adjunct when an antibiotic or steroid is indicated. 8. Saddle sores, bridle sores, dew poisoning/heal cracks, thrush, grab wounds, mud rash, thermal burns, and other dermatoses. 9. Wounds or dermatology cases that are slow to respond with hair regrowth. 10. Post-surgery cases where a topical is beneficial to reduce the surgery site irritation, itch, and infection. 11. Wounds where reduced scar tissue or no formation of exuberant granulation tissue (proud flesh) is desired. 12. Cases requiring good product compliance and minimal wrap requirements.