Product Description
Flunixin meglumin 42461-84-7
AI Product Description
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Flunixin meglumine is a potent non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) widely utilized in veterinary medicine, primarily for the management of pain and inflammation associated with musculoskeletal disorders and acute respiratory conditions in cattle, horses, and swine. Chemically classified as a fluorophenylbutazone derivative, this compound acts by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes, thereby blocking the synthesis of prostaglandins responsible for mediating pain, fever, and inflammatory responses. The specific salt form, meglumine, enhances water solubility, facilitating rapid absorption and effective therapeutic action following intravenous or intramuscular administration.
The molecular formula of flunixin meglumine is C15H12F3NO4·C7H19NO2, reflecting the combination of the active flunixin moiety with the meglumine counterion. Its unique chemical structure includes a trifluoromethyl group that contributes to its high potency and prolonged duration of action compared to earlier NSAIDs. The substance is identified by the CAS registry number 57053-28-6, which serves as a critical identifier for regulatory compliance, safety data sheets, and pharmaceutical manufacturing processes globally. In clinical practice, flunixin meglumine is particularly renowned for its efficacy in treating endotoxemia in cattle, often resulting from mastitis or metritis, where it helps mitigate the severe systemic effects of bacterial toxins. Additionally, it is a standard treatment for pleurisy, pneumonia, and colic in equines, providing significant relief from abdominal pain and reducing fever.
Due to its strong anti-prostaglandin activity, strict adherence to withdrawal periods is mandatory before animals enter the human food chain to prevent residue contamination in meat and milk products. While highly effective, veterinarians must exercise caution regarding potential side effects such as gastric ulceration, renal toxicity, and gastrointestinal disturbances, especially when administered at high doses or over extended periods. Despite these risks, flunixin meglumine remains a cornerstone medication in large animal practice, offering a reliable solution for controlling acute inflammatory states and improving animal welfare during illness. Its widespread availability and proven track record make it an essential component of modern veterinary pharmacotherapy protocols worldwide.