NSAIDS
NSAIDS (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory) drugs are prescribed by a veterinarian to reduce pain, inflammation, and fever associated with injury or illness. These drugs work with the body’s inflammation process by blocking cox enzymes which stimulate the prostaglandins, that cause inflammation and signal pain. In response to an injury, the body often produces too much inflammation & swelling. This causes pain and decreases the body’s ability to repair itself. Long term swelling inhibits blood flow to the area of the injury or infection. Reducing this swelling increases blood flow, which carries antibiotics given, to the affected area. NSAIDS may be given prior to surgery to decrease inflammation, swelling and pain.
NSAIDS SIDE EFFECTS
The most common side effects of NSAIDS when given in high doses or long-term use are gastric ulcers, intestinal bleeding, and kidney problems. Each horse is different, so drug dosage and length of treatment will vary. Your vet may prescribe an ulcer preventative drug when long term NSAID use is required. Bute (Phenylbutazone) given twice a day for 5-7 days causes colon and gastric ulcers. Low doses of Bute, when horses are on abundant pasture, is generally well tolerated for long periods of time. Banamine (Flunixin Meglumine) is less likely to cause gastric ulcers and is tolerated for long term use. If the horse is dehydrated a large dose of NSAID can damage the kidneys. Monitor the horse for colic, diarrhea or loss of appetite.
FIROCOXIB, A Cox2 INHIBITOR NSAID
Firocoxib (Equioxx and Previcox) is a Cox2 inhibitor. It decreases inflammation and pain without the GI side effects of other NSAIDS, such as gastric ulcers. It is effective for arthritis, safer, but Bute or Banamine provide more pain relief. Firocoxib takes 24 hours to reach full effect after the initial dose. If administered daily it will remain in full effect, and last for 24 hours (or more) after the last dose. Bute and Banamine start to work in 1 hour, and last 8-12 hours.
NSAID USE
Do not exceed the prescribed dose of an NSAID. Do not administer multiple NSAID drugs at the same time, such as (Bute & Banamine), or (Equioxx & Banamine) unless directed by the Vet. NSAIDS work specifically to break the cycle of inflammation. It is often said Banamine for colic, Bute for muscle skeletal injury. The drugs are very similar, and work in the same way. In most cases, especially in emergencies, you can use one or the other.
STEROIDS OR CORTISONES
Dexamethasone, Prednisolone and Triamcinolone are used short term, often only once. They are used for specific problems including allergic reactions, hives, swelling of legs, or intra articular in joints. Steroids are fast acting. They affect multiple body pathways with cortisone receptors, in every part of the body. An intra articular joint injection of cortisone can affect the body’s natural cortisone up to 6 days. Side effects are decreased or depressed immune system (which can increase infection), digestive or hormone problems, laminitis or founder.
OLYMPIC EVENTS
There is still time (August 1st thru August 4th) to watch the equine events on Peacock!
CASTRATION SIGNS: Too Hot!
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