Calmex-V

The Vitamin B family is made up of several compounds that support many important roles in the body: protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism; energy production; proper nerve cell transmission, reproduction, and division (especially rapidly dividing ones such as red blood cells). B vitamins include thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), pyridoxine (B6), folic acid (B9), cyanocobalamin (B12), choline, biotin, inositol and others are sometimes referred to as B-vitamins. For most of the B-vitamins, microorganisms in the large intestine make all the horse needs. Only thiamine and riboflavin have NRC dietary requirements. However, research suggests B-vitamin supplementation may be beneficial to horses with little access to fresh pasture and/or during any periods of stress (training, injury, travel, etc.)

Magnesium (Mg) is a macro mineral that is frequently recommended for a wide range of equine health conditions. Magnesium helps to maintain normal muscle and nerve function, a healthy heart, healthy immune system and strong bones. Magnesium aids to regulate blood sugar levels, promotes normal blood pressure, and known to be involved in energy metabolism and protein synthesis. Since a symptom of magnesium deficiency is agitation or anxiety, it is included in many calming supplements.

Valerian Root is an herb with specific actions on the nervous system. It helps maintain a healthy nervous system and balance in horses displaying nervous/anxious behavior. **Valerian root is a banned substance in many organizations, always check competition guidelines regarding its usage.

Thiamine (Vitamin B1) plays a role in supporting carbohydrate metabolism and normal muscle and nerve function. Thiamine supplementation has been shown to have a calming effect in horses displaying anxious/nervous behavior as a result thiamine deficiency and/or increased requirements.

Tryptophan is an amino acid, converted by the body into serotonin, melatonin, and other hormones that transmit nerve signals in the brain. Serotonin is the neurotransmitter in the horse’s brain that helps promote feelings of well-being/contentment as well as balanced behavior.

Taurine is an amino acid found in high concentrations in electrically active tissues such as the brain, heart, retina and muscle. It stabilizes membranes and assists in the movement of electrolytes in and out of cells, which is critical for proper nervous system and muscle health. Taurine is necessary for the absorption of fats and vitamins and helps support normal insulin and glucose levels. It can be found in supplements for growing horses, nervous horses and horses with metabolic issues.

Inositol is closely related to the B-vitamin family and is found in nearly every cell in the body. Because of its location within the cell membrane, it plays two major roles: transporting fats and assisting in nerve transmission. By participating in the action of serotonin, a neurotransmitter whose brain levels are known to be a factor in excess anxiety, inositol may be helpful in promoting a healthy balanced behavior in horses.

How long after consumption will the ingredients begin to have an effect? I am trying to plan out the best time to ride after feeding this supplement.

MVP:  Calmex-V™ is designed to be fed daily to provide ongoing support for proper nervous system function, helping to manage nervousness and support your horse’s ability to focus. Because this product works by providing ingredients (such as vitamin B1 and magnesium) that your horse’s body needs for a healthy  and balanced nervous system, it may take a few weeks before you see the full results of this product. However it does not need to be given at a specific time of day relative to your riding time. If you are looking for a calming support product to be given on an occasional basis, you might consider the Calmex-V Paste, which is designed for use as-needed during stressful situations.

Can I give this supplement to a mare who is on Levelor? There is taurine in both, I’m not sure how much is too much.

MVP: A calming supplement like Calmex or Calmex-V may be given in conjunction with a product like Levelor, which supports a healthy hormone balance as these formulas address different aspects of your horse’s health. The amount of taurine and magnesium provided by both products together is considered appropriate for most horses with an otherwise balanced diet. If you have any concerns about using these supplements with your individual horse, we recommend discussing this with your veterinarian.