The veterinary journal
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Clenbuterol is a beta(2)-agonist and potent selective bronchodilator that is used to treat bronchospasm in the horse. The drug is normally administered to horses orally as a syrup formulation. ⋯ A great deal of information has been published on the beneficial effects of short term therapeutic doses of clenbuterol on the equine respiratory system, although there is limited information about chronic administration, particularly since this has been associated with adverse physiological effects on other systems. This review summarizes the relevant understanding of clenbuterol for clinicians and horse owners who may administer this drug to pleasure and performance horses.