6 Questions to Ask Your Vet About NSAID Use
PHJ release by: Desiree Heath
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs—called NSAIDs for short—are typically used to treat conditions such as the pain and inflammation associated with equine osteoarthritis. Unlike NSAIDs used in human medicine that can be purchased over-the-counter, like ibuprofen, NSAIDs in equine medicine are only available with a veterinarian’s prescription.
When prescribing an NSAID, your veterinarian will consider the type needed for the horse’s specific ailment. Each horse and each ailment is treated separately, depending on the animal’s individual response to the treatment. Fortunately, veterinarians have options when prescribing NSAIDs and will prescribe the best option for each individual Paint. Veterinarians will take into account the ailment, age of the horse, activity level of the horse and the route of administration – some NSAIDs are available in injection, topicals, paste, powder or tablets.
While non-coxib NSAIDS have been used for years to treat equine osteoarthritis,
EQUIOXX® (firocoxib), developed by APHA Corporate Partner Merial, is the only coxib NSAID approved for horses, and it controls the pain and inflammation associated with equine osteoarthritis. Paint Horse owners and trainers have access to NSAIDs through their veterinarian with a prescription, and the veterinarian should be involved every time when determining if an NSAID should be used. Here are a few questions to ask your veterinarian if he or she determines an NSAID is needed:
1) What is the correct dosage and route of administration?
2) How often should the medication be administered?
3) When should I stop giving the medication?
4) How long before the medication takes effect?
5) Are there any side effects to this medication?
6) Should this medication be given with any other medications?
When giving any NSAID, it’s important to check dosage and administration guidelines. Talk to your veterinarian about NSAID options for your Paint Horse.
