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.
Flunixin Meglumine Injection is used to reduce pain and inflammation and control fever in many species of animals like cats, cows, dogs, goats, horses. poultry, sheep, and pigs. It relieves symptoms associated with conditions like bovine respiratory disease, endotoxemia, or acute mastitis. It is also used to treat musculoskeletal pain and visceral pain associated with colic.
Indications of Flunixin Meglumine for horses
Flunixin Meglumine commonly is used for pain relief to treat colic. It is used for protection from septic/endotoxic shock due to any gastrointestinal insult either post surgical or medical such as in cases of peritonitis or diarrhea. Flunixin is used commonly as an anti-inflammatory to treat painful conditions of the eye including corneal ulcers, uveitis, conjunctivitis, and before and after eye surgery. It may be used to reduce or control fevers due to viral or bacterial infections. Although flunixin can be used to treat arthritis, there are other NSAIDs that are prescribed more commonly for this purpose.
Flunixin Meglumine Side Effects
The most-common side effects include GI ulceration, especially of the stomach and large colon.
Rare side-effects include kidney damage and bleeding disorders.
Allergic reactions are rare but have been reported.
Precautions of Flunixin Meglumine
1. Prolonged oral administration of the drug is more likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as ulcers. Dehydrated or weakened horses are more likely to have kidney problems. Horses with liver or kidney disease or those susceptible to gastrointestinal ulcers should be avoided or monitored closely.
2. Flunixin should be used with caution in pregnant or lactating mares. No adverse effects on sperm have been reported.
3. Flunixin may be used in foals but should be used with special caution to avoid gastrointestinal ulcers and to maintain renal function. Preterm foals, septic foals, foals with questionable renal or hepatic function, and foals with diarrhea require careful monitoring. Medications that protect the gastrointestinal tract, such as omeprazole, cimetidine, or aluminum sulfate, are often used in conjunction with flunixin.
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