flunixin horses​

flunixin horses​ is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) widely used in veterinary medicine. It is commonly prescribed for pain relief, fever reduction, and inflammation control in a variety of animals, including horses, cattle, and swine. Flunixin is particularly effective for musculoskeletal disorders, colic in horses, and endotoxemia.

General Information
Active Ingredient: Flunixin meglumine.
Drug Class: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
Forms Available: Injectable solution (commonly in 50 mg/ml concentration).
Species: Primarily labeled for horses, cattle, and swine, but may be used off-label in other animals under veterinary supervision.
Mechanism of Action
Flunixin inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, primarily COX-2, which are involved in the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins contribute to pain, fever, and inflammation. By blocking prostaglandin synthesis, Flunixin:

Reduces pain perception.
Decreases inflammation.
Lowers fever. flunixin horses
Minimizes effects of endotoxemia (toxic shock due to bacterial toxins).
Indications

flunixin for horses​:

Colic: Relieves abdominal pain associated with spasms or distention.
Musculoskeletal Disorders: Treats lameness, arthritis, or other inflammatory conditions.
Endotoxemia: Reduces the effects of bacterial toxins in septic conditions.
Cattle:
Respiratory Disease: Adjunct therapy in bovine respiratory disease (BRD).
Mastitis: Reduces inflammation and fever associated with acute mastitis.
Endotoxemia: Treatment for toxic shock due to bacterial infections.
Swine:
Farrowing Disorders: Alleviates pain and inflammation during parturition.
Respiratory Disease: Reduces fever and inflammation in cases of swine respiratory disease.
Dosage and Administration
Always consult a veterinarian for precise dosing.

flunixin for horses​:

Colic: 1.1 mg/kg body weight (1 ml/45 kg) IV or IM every 12 hours. Use should not exceed 5 consecutive days.
Musculoskeletal: Same dose as colic, generally administered IV or IM for up to 5 days. flunixin horses​
Cattle:
2.2 mg/kg body weight (2 ml/45 kg) IV once daily for up to 3 days. Use only in non-lactating dairy cows and beef cattle. flunixin horses​
Swine:
2.2 mg/kg body weight (2 ml/45 kg) IM once daily for up to 3 days.
Benefits
Rapid Onset: Relief from colic pain and inflammation within minutes after IV administration in horses.
Broad Application: Effective for both systemic and localized inflammation.
Versatility: Suitable for multiple species and conditions. flunixin horses
Side Effects
As with all NSAIDs, Flunixin has potential side effects, particularly with prolonged use or overdose.

Short-Term Effects:

Local irritation at the injection site (especially with IM use).
Mild gastrointestinal disturbances.
Long-Term or Overdose Effects:
Gastrointestinal Ulcers: Due to prostaglandin inhibition.
Kidney Damage: Particularly in dehydrated or stressed animals.
Hematological Issues: Rare but may include bleeding disorders due to platelet function interference.
Contraindications
Dehydration or Shock: Can exacerbate kidney damage. flunixin horses​
Pre-existing GI Ulcers: May worsen with Flunixin.
Concurrent NSAID or Corticosteroid Use: Increases risk of ulcers and bleeding.
Pregnant Animals: Use only if benefits outweigh risks (safety varies by species).
Withdrawal Times (Food Animals)
Strict adherence to withdrawal periods is necessary to avoid drug residues in food products:

Cattle (Meat): 4 days after last IV administration.
Cattle (Milk): Not labeled for use in lactating dairy cows.
Swine (Meat): 12 days after last IM administration. flunixin horses​
Storage
Store at room temperature (15-30°C).
Protect from light and freezing. flunixin horses
Discard any unused portion after 28 days once the vial is punctured (check the product label for specific recommendations).
Precautions
Proper Hydration: Ensure animals are hydrated to minimize kidney risks.
Monitor for Signs of Ulcers: Watch for reduced appetite, dark stools, or abdominal pain.
Avoid Abrupt Discontinuation: Prolonged use should be tapered under veterinary guidance.

flunixin for horses​

flunixin for horses​ is a cornerstone NSAID in veterinary medicine for managing pain, fever, and inflammation. Its effectiveness in acute conditions like colic and its role in systemic inflammation make it invaluable. However, its potent effects require cautious use under veterinary supervision to avoid serious side effects. Always follow label instructions and withdrawal times when using Flunixin in food-producing animals. flunixin horses​