Phenylbutazone

What is Phenylbutazone?

Phenylbutazone for Horses is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain and inflammation associated with fractures, arthritis, and painful injuries to the limbs and joints. Phenylbutazone requires a prescription from your veterinarian, and is available by the tablet, in an injectable solution, and as an oral paste. Phenylbutazone injectable solution must be kept in the refrigerator at all times. To ensure proper temperature, Phenylbutazone injectable solution requires overnight shipping at an additional cost.

For:

Horses

Benefits:

• Relieves pain and inflammation
• Particularly good for osteoarthritis
• Reduces fever
• Inexpensive
• Paste comes in a tasty apple flavor

How it Works:

Phenylbutazone is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) which through its anti-inflammatory action can relieve pain, reduce inflammation and reduce fever.

Cautions:

Do not give Phenylbutazone to pregnant or lactating mares. Do not give Phenylbutazone with other NSAIDs, corticosteroids, or other ulcer-causing medications. Phenylbutazone should not be given to horses that are dehydrated or have stomach ulcers, anemia, bleeding disorders, or liver, kidney or heart disease.

Brand Name:

Bute Boluses (Vedco), Equi-Phar (Vedco), VetriBute (VetOne)

Generic Name:

Phenylbutazone (fen-ill-bute'-a-zone)

What is the most important information I should know about phenylbutazone:

Phenylbutazone is a prescription medication FDA approved for use in horses. It is available as 1 gram (1000 mg) scored tablets, 100 ml injectable solution, and 60 ml oral paste. The usual dose in horses is 2 to 4 Grams (2,000 to 4,000 mg) per 1000 pounds every 24 hours, which is 2-4 tablets, 10-20 ml, or 2-4 markings on the syringe plunger. Phenylbutazone tablets should be given with food. Phenylbutazone injectable solution should be administered intravenously. The injectable solution does not include a syringe. Phenylbutazone Oral Paste should be administered by the mouth. Phenylbutazone should not be given to animals who are dehydrated or have stomach ulcers, anemia or bleeding disorders, or liver, kidney or heart disease.

What is phenylbutazone:

Phenylbutazone is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain and inflammation associated with fractures, arthritis and painful injuries to the limbs and joints. Phenylbutazone may be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving phenylbutazone to my horse:

Tell your veterinarian if your horse has ever had an allergic reaction to phenylbutazone or any other NSAID. Tell your veterinarian if your horse has any liver, kidney or heart disease. Tell your veterinarian if your horse is pregnant or lactating. Talk to your veterinarian about the appropriate syringe to use with Phenylbutazone Injectable Solution.

How should this medication be given:

Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. If you do not understand the directions, ask your pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. Tablets should be given with food. Phenylbutazone injectable solution should be administered intravenously. Store this medication at room temperature. Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

What happens if I miss giving a dose:

Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and give the next one as directed. Do not give a double dose of the medication.

What happens if I overdose the horse:

In the event of overdose, contact your veterinarian or veterinary emergency room. Symptoms of overdose may include decreased urine production and blood in the urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin, gums and eyes), pale gums, weakness, and ulcers.

What should I avoid while giving phenylbutazone to my horse:

Do not use phenylbutazone in animals allergic to it or other NSAIDs. Do not use in pregnant or lactating mares. Do not give phenylbutazone with other NSAIDs, corticosteroids, or other ulcer causing medications.

What are the possible side effects of phenylbutazone:

Side effects that may occur when using phenylbutazone may include ulcers, kidney damage, bloody stool, decreased white blood cells and platelets as well as an allergic reaction (facial swelling, hives, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, coma). Other side effects may also occur. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to your horse.

What other drugs will affect phenylbutazone:

Use caution when giving phenylbutazone with phenytoin, warfarin, sulfonamides, glipizide, digoxin, barbiturates, rifampin, chlorpheniramine or diphenhydramine. Talk to your veterinarian or pharmacist before using phenylbutazone with any prescription or over the counter medications, including vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements.

Where can I get more information:

Your pharmacist has additional information about phenylbutazone written for health professionals that you may read.