What is Flunixin Meglumine?
Flunixin meglumine is classified as a non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by inhibiting the action of cyclooxygenase. The drug operates by decreasing the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are mediators responsible for inflammation and pain. By targeting the cyclooxygenase enzyme, flunixin meglumine is able to reduce the levels of these prostaglandins, thereby mitigating the associated symptoms.
The drug's mode of action provides both analgesic and antipyretic effects, and its efficacy is notable in alleviating visceral pain. Its rapid onset of action ensures prompt relief, making it a preferred choice for acute conditions requiring immediate attention.
What is Flunixin Meglumine used for?
Flunixin meglumine is used for pain relief, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic purposes in animals such as cattle and horses, where it relieves symptoms associated with diseases such as bovine respiratory disease, endotoxemia or acute mastitis.
Horses: Flunixin Injection is recommended for the relief of inflammation and pain associated with musculoskeletal disorders in horses. It is also recommended for the relief of visceral pain caused by equine colic.
Bovine: Flunixin Injection is used to control fever associated with bovine respiratory disease, endotoxemia and acute bovine mastitis. Flunixin Injection is also used to control inflammation in endotoxemia.
Usage and Dosage of Flunixin meglumine
Horses: The recommended dose for musculoskeletal disorders is 0.5 mg per pound of body weight once daily (1 ml/100 lbs). Treatment may be given intravenously or intramuscularly and may be repeated for up to five days.
The recommended dose for relief of colic pain in horses is 0.5 mg per pound of body weight. Intravenous administration is recommended for rapid pain relief. Treatment may be repeated when colic symptoms recur.
Cattle: The recommended dose for control of fever due to respiratory disease and endotoxemia in cattle and for control of inflammation from endotoxemia is 1.1 to 2.2 mg/kg (0.5 to 1 mg/lb; 1 to 2 mL per 100 lb) administered slowly intravenously once daily or in two divided doses at 12-hour intervals for up to 3 days. Total daily dose should not exceed 2.2 mg/kg (1.0 mg/lb) body weight. Avoid rapid intravenous administration. The recommended dose for use in acute bovine mastitis is 2.2 mg/kg (1.0 mg/lb: 2 mL per 100 lb) administered once intravenously.