Non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Bute, Banamine, Ketofen, etc.) are frequently used to alleviate the clinical signs (namely inflammation and pain) associated with arthritis in horses. However, consistent use can result in gastric ulceration as well as kidney and liver dysfunction. Therefore, we recommend this form of therapy on a temporary basis only.
There is a relatively new product called EQUIOXX® (firocoxib) that was developed by Merial. Equioxx has been shown to reduce inflammation and pain associated with osteoarthritis in horses. At the same time, it offers a much better safety profile when compared to other (more traditional) NSAIDs.
Equioxx® is the first coxib class nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug that is highly selective against Cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) prostaglandins which are responsible for inflammation. Unlike other NSAIDs, however, Equioxx spares the beneficial Cox-1 prostaglandins required for normal gastric, renal (kidney), and hepatic (liver) function. A single dose lasts for 24 hours and can be safely administered for up to 14 days in a row.
Equioxx® comes in an oral paste form; each tube contains 1500 pounds of medication. Each marking on the syringe treats 250 pounds of body weight, and each notch corresponds to a 50-lb weight increment. Equioxx can be administered with or without food.
At The Atlanta Equine Clinic, we have observed a comparable effect of a much lower (and less-expensive) dose of the small animal preparation of firocoxib, known as PREVICOX®, to that of its large-animal counterpart (Equioxx). In our experience, a 57-mg dose of Previcox (which costs less than 67 cents) produces similar clinical results to that of an extire tube of Equioxx (which costs $9.75). This product can also be ordered through our pharmacy.
Either product can be ordered through our Pharmacy by calling 678-867-2577 or by sending us a MESSAGE.
CLICK HERE to visit our ONLINE PHARMACY.
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