FlunixinDose, contraindications and adverse effects for Cattle, Horses and Pigs.

Anthranilic-acid-derivative NSAID; nonselective COX inhibitor used for musculoskeletal inflammation and visceral pain. In the United States, flunixin is FDA-approved for use in horses, cattle, and swine; it is approved for use in dogs in other countries. FDA-approved indications for its use in horses include alleviation of inflammation and pain associated with musculoskeletal disorders and alleviation of visceral pain associated with colic. In cattle, the injectable form of flunixin is FDA-approved for the contr

Flunixin is a potent inhibitor of cyclooxygenase and, like other NSAIDs, it exhibits analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic activity. Flunixin does not appreciably alter GI motility in horses and may improve hemodynamics in animals with septic shock.

The only contraindication the manufacturer lists for flunixin use in horses is for patients with a history of hypersensitivity reactions to the drug. It is suggested, however, that flunixin be used cautiously in animals with renal, hepatic, or hematologic diseases, and in animals with suspected preexisting gastric erosions or ulcerations.

When flunixin is used for pain, if the animal does not respond to an initial dose, additional doses will unlikely be effective and may increase the chance for toxicity. Following IM injection in horses, especially in the neck, localized swelling and tissue necrosis, induration, stiffness, and sweating have been reported; clinical signs are transient and generally do not require any treatment.

■ Analgesic/anti-inflammatory effects 544 Fluorouracil ■ Body temperature ■ GI effects in dogs ■ Periodic CBC and fecal occult blood testing with chronic use in horses

A withdrawal interval is stated for this drug. It depends on the formulation, route and dose, so read the exact wording in the interactive drug guide before treating a food animal.