The effect of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs on the equine intestine.

The research highlights the effects of Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on the equine intestine, especially in the treatment of horse colic. It points out the potential adverse effects and further shows a difference in the impact of various NSAIDs on the large and small intestines.

Understanding the use of NSAIDs in Colic Treatment

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used in managing symptoms of colic in horses such as pain and endotoxaemia.
• The research underscores that administration of these drugs has potentially adverse gastrointestinal effects. Examples of these adverse effects include right dorsal colitis and inhibition of mucosal barrier healing.

Examination of NSAID Effects on Intestine

• Several studies have been carried out focusing on the pathophysiology of NSAIDs and how they affect the large and small intestines, with an aim of avoiding complications and identifying alternative effective medications.
• Differences have been identified in the way the large and small intestines respond to injury and NSAID treatment.

Effects of Specific NSAIDs on the Intestine

• Flunixin meglumine, an NSAID, has been shown particularly in the small intestine, to inhibit barrier function recovery and increase permeability to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a major component of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria.
• Various NSAIDs have been evaluated in the small intestine and it was observed that NSAIDs with cyclooxygenase independent anti-inflammatory effects or a COX-2 selective mode of action might present significant advantages over traditional NSAIDs.

The above points out the need for considering the different effects of various NSAIDs on either the large or small intestine when formulating treatment plans for horses, particularly those with colic.