Description

Meclofenamic acid is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with effects similar to those of aspirin.  It does not speed healing or cure the underlying problem, but makes the horse more comfortable by reducing pain, inflammation, and fever.

Usage

Meclofenamic acid is prescribed for musculoskeletal pain from soft tissue injury, bone and joint problems, and laminitis.  It works by inhibiting the body's production of prostaglandins and other chemicals that stimulate the body's inflammatory response.  Because it can take a day or two before the effects are seen, other NSAIDs are more commonly used for colic and other acute problems, such as fevers.

Dosage and Administration

Meclofenamic Acid
Method	Dosage (click row for calculator)	Concentration	Period	Duration
Oral	2.2 mg/kg	500 mg/packet	Daily	5-7 days
Notes: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Extra-label use of drugs in treating animals is allowable only by licensed veterinarians within the context of a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and does not include drug use in treating animals by the layman (except under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian). Calculator is for educational purposes only. Follow your veterinarian's instructions regarding use of this, or any medication.

Side Effects

Adverse reactions to meclofenamic acid are uncommon.  As with other NSAIDs, the most common side effects include gastrointestinal tract ulcers and bleeding, colic, and diarrhea.  Decreased red blood cell count due to bleeding may occur.  Horses with heavy infestations of bots may be more likely to have GI problems.

Precautions

Meclofenamic acid should be avoided or carefully monitored in horses that are allergic to aspirin, have liver or kidney disease, or gastrointestinal problems.

Studies in other animals show that meclofenamic acid can delay labor and cause skeletal abnormalities in the fetus. It should be used in pregnant or nursing mares only when potential benefits outweigh the risks.

If used with foals, particular care should be taken to avoid GI ulceration and maintain kidney function.  Use should be closely monitored, and drugs to protect the GI tract, such as omeprazole, may be used.

Meclofenamic acid is FDA approved for use with horses and is a prescription drug.  U.S. federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the lawful written or oral order of a licensed veterinarian.

Meclofenamic acid is either prohibited or regulated in most competitions.  It is important to check with the proper regulatory group.

Interactions

Meclofenamic acid should not be combined with other anti-inflammatory drugs that cause GI ulcers, such as corticosteroids or aspirin, that may increase blood loss due to GI side effects.

Meclofenamic acid should not be combined with anticoagulant drugs, such as warfarin and sulfa antibiotics.

Overdose

Overdoses usually shows signs of toxicity, including loss of appetite, colic, diarrhea, ulcers in the mouth, and depression.