An experimental synovitis model was used in ponies to evaluate the effect of parecoxib, a selective non steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Five days after synovitis induction, three ponies received parecoxib (IV) 0.55mg/kg/day and three ponies received sterile 0.9% saline solution (IV) for five days. Clinical parameters and synovial fluid were evaluated before synovitis induction, prior treatment and 12, 24, 48, 96, and 120 hours after the first treatment. The intra-articular injection of Freund's complete adjuvant induced a moderate to severe synovitis. The parecoxib treated ponies showed lameness reduction; maintenance of stride length, articular flexion, temperature, and heart rate; and attenuation of articular effusion. Although the used dosage of parecoxib had no effect on evaluated synovial fluid parameters, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, and especially analgesic effects were observed.
horse; synovitis; non steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID); parecoxib
