Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) are medications commonly used in the equine industry. Common drugs belonging to this group include the popular phenylbutazone (also known as ‘Bute’) and flunixin meglumine (commonly known as ‘Banamine’).
AbButazone (Phenylbutazone) is a non-steroidal, analgesic agent with anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs) and antipyretic activity. It is available in single-dose sachets of flavourless, bright orange, film-coated granules. Abler does not sell products containing Banamine.
Bute is effective in the treatment of:
- Short term treatment of pain (analgesia)
- Treatment of fever (antipyresis) in horses*
- Sprains
- Overuse injuries
- Tendonitis
- Laminitis
- Arthritis
Bute acts directly on musculoskeletal tissue to control inflammation. This alleviates pain, reduces secondary inflammation and restores motion. Bute is not an effective pain reliever for colic.
Banamine is effective in the treatment of:
- Pain caused by colic
- Pain caused by eye problems (ie. conjunctivitis, uveitis and corneal ulcers).
- Arthritis
* Bute’s antipyretic qualities can reduce fever symptoms and assist a horse’s recovery by encouraging eating and drinking. However, care should be taken as bute may mask other symptoms of an ill horse.