Firocoxib: Valuable NSAID Medication, Not A Supplement

Pain control is a frequent focus of both equine and human sports medicine. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are an important tool in the pain control tool chest. In the equine world these most commonly include Phenylbatzone (Bute), flunixin meglumine (Banamine), and firocoxib (Equioxx). NSAIDs are effective for pain control, but are not without side-effects. The most common side-effects involve the gastrointestinal tract. Firocoxib as a COX-2-selective NSAID was thought to have less severe effects on the gastrointestinal tract. We have discovered a common misconception that Equioxx is a supplement and not a medication that warrants the same care and monitoring in administration as its counterparts. It is important to us that our clients are aware of the potential negative impact that these medications can have. The attached article discusses the effects on the large colon with administration of firocoxib in a controlled study.https://issuu.com/themodernequineveterinarian/docs/equinevet_feb2022_final/8?fr=sYzgyNTQ2NzM0MjA