Flunixin Meglumine

What is flunixin meglumine?

Flunixin meglumine (brand names: Banamine®,  Flunixamine®, Flunizine®, Vedagesic®) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain, inflammation, and fever in horses.

Its use in horses is FDA-approved, but use in dogs, cats, ferrets, and other small mammals should be avoided. 

How is flunixin meglumine given?

• Flunixin meglumine is given by mouth in the form of a paste or granules, or injected into the vein by your veterinarian. 
• Give the oral forms with food or mixed with molasses.
• Measure doses carefully.

This medication should take effect within 1 to 2 hours; however, effects may not be obvious and therefore, laboratory tests may be required to evaluate whether the medication is working.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it when you remember. However, if it is close to the time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed, give it at the next scheduled time, and return to the regular dosing schedule. Never give your pet two doses at once or give extra doses.

Are there any potential side effects?

Side effects are uncommon if used short term and at lower doses. Side effects may include:

• swelling at the injection site
• muscle stiffness
• sweating

SERIOUS ADVERSE REACTIONS associated with this drug may occur without warning and could, in rare cases, lead to death. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving flunixin and contact your veterinarian immediately:

• diarrhea
• lack of appetite
• abnormal bleeding
• fever
• limb swelling
• muscle infection/damage after injection into the muscle

This moderate-acting medication should stop working in a few days, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

Flunixin meglumine SHOULD NOT BE USED in animals that:

• are allergic to it or other NSAIDs
• are expected to give birth within the next two days

Flunixin meglumine SHOULD BE USED WITH CAUTION in animals that:

• have kidney, liver, or blood diseases
• are pregnant, breeding, or nursing 
• have stomach ulcers

DO NOT USE IN DOGS, CATS, OR BIRDS.

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Certain medications may interact with flunixin meglumine and so it is important to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your horse is taking before starting any new treatment. Examples of such medications include:

• corticosteroids (Prednisone, Dexamethasone)
• enrofloxacin (Baytril®)

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• In horses using this medication long-term, blood cell counts and fecal checks for bleeding should be performed.
• Your veterinarian may recommend recheck examinations to ensure the medication is working adequately to manage pain.
• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any side effects occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store flunixin meglumine?

• Store this medication at room temperature between 36°F and 86°F (2°C and 30°C). 
• Protect from light and protect paste from freezing.
• Keep the container out of reach of children and pets.
• Store compounded forms of this medication according to the label.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.