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Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory analgesics: a review of current practice
Author(s) -
Mathews Karol A.
Publication year - 2002
Publication title -
journal of veterinary emergency and critical care
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.886
H-Index - 47
eISSN - 1476-4431
pISSN - 1479-3261
DOI - 10.1046/j.1435-6935.2002.00007.x
Subject(s) - medicine , cyclooxygenase , adverse effect , dosing , intensive care medicine , pharmacology , bioinformatics , enzyme , biochemistry , chemistry , biology
Abstract Objective: This review is intended to update the reader on the clinical aspects of the non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory analgesics (NSAIAs) currently used in veterinary practice. Most NSAIAs act by selectively, or preferentially, inhibiting the synthesis of cyclooxygenase (COX)‐1 or COX‐2, or both COX‐1 and COX‐2 enzymes which oxidize arachadonic acid to a series of prostenoids. The prostenoids are precursors of various prostaglandins required for many homeostatic functions throughout the body. The COX‐1 and COX‐2 enzymes are constitutive, however the COX‐2 enzyme is also induced following injury or inflammation facilitating the transmission of pain. As the newer NSAIAs focus on the inhibition of COX‐2, this review offers a more detailed discussion of this enzyme. Data synthesis: This data was obtained from recent review articles and original published reports in both the veterinary and human literature. A CAB and Medline search was also used. Conclusions: The NSAIAs are effective analgesics for managing moderate to severe pain in many species of animals; however, potential adverse effects may occur if used inappropriately. Guidelines, including indications, contraindications and dosing regimens for the commonly available NSAIAs are included.