Topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

This study gives an overview of the use and effects of Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in equine practice, particularly in performance horses. It explains that while NSAIDs can reduce pain and let horses perform at their full potential, there are concerns over safety and the drugs’ lingering, longer-than-indicated effects on plasma concentrations.

Mechanism and Use of NSAIDs

• The research paper introduces the mechanism of NSAID, explaining that these drugs work by inhibiting the synthesis of prostanoids. This process is responsible for both the therapeutic and toxic effects of the drugs.
• NSAIDs are commonly used in treating acute and chronic musculoskeletal and soft-tissue conditions in horses. These conditions often cause pain and lameness, reducing the performance abilities of the animals.

Adverse Effects of NSAIDs

• The paper outlines the potential side effects of NSAIDs, emphasizing that they can cause gastrointestinal disturbances and hypoproteinemia, a condition characterized by abnormally low levels of protein in the blood.
• One of the key findings of the paper is that the pharmacologic impact of NSAIDs outlasts their presence in the horse’s bloodstream. This means that even after the drugs are no longer detectable in plasma concentrations, they could still influence the horse’s health and performance.

Implications for Performance Horses

• Despite these side effects, the paper highlights that NSAIDs don’t necessarily enhance performance in horses. Instead, by reducing pain and lameness, these drugs allow horses to perform at their full potential.
• However, such therapeutic use of NSAIDs has sparked concerns about the welfare of the horse. Prolonged or inappropriate use could potentially jeopardize the animal’s health and well-being.

Conclusions of the Research

• The research concludes by stating that NSAIDs have merited therapeutic uses in equine practice. However, they should only be administered when there is a clear clinical indication.
• Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the importance of using safe dosage rates and not compromising the welfare of performance horses.