Managing Laminitis and Navicular Disease in Performance Horses With Meclofenamic Acid

When it comes to the well-being and performance of horses, certain conditions can pose significant challenges. Laminitis and navicular disease are two such conditions that can severely impact a horse's soundness and overall athletic ability. However, thanks to advancements in veterinary medicine, there are treatments available to alleviate these conditions. One such treatment is Meclofenamic Acid, commonly known as Arquel. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of Meclofenamic Acid and explore its role in managing laminitis and navicular disease in performance horses.

Understanding Laminitis and Navicular Disease: Before we discuss the treatment, it is important to understand the conditions it addresses. Laminitis is a painful and potentially debilitating condition that affects the sensitive laminae of the horse's hoof. It often occurs due to factors such as diet, obesity, or trauma, leading to inflammation and disruption of the laminae's blood supply. On the other hand, navicular disease, also known as navicular syndrome, involves inflammation or degeneration of the navicular bone and associated structures within the hoof. Both conditions can lead to severe lameness and affect a horse's ability to perform.

The Role of Meclofenamic Acid (Arquel): Meclofenamic Acid, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), has gained recognition as an effective treatment option for laminitis and navicular disease in performance horses. It is marketed under the brand name Arquel. This medication belongs to a unique class of NSAIDs and is known for its potent anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties. Benefits of Arquel:

1. Pain Management: Arquel helps reduce pain associated with laminitis and navicular disease by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for pain and inflammation.

2. Anti-Inflammatory Action: By suppressing the inflammatory response, Arquel helps alleviate the swelling and inflammation commonly observed in these conditions.

3. Improved Comfort: The analgesic properties of Arquel contribute to increased comfort and overall well-being of the horse, allowing it to move more freely.

4. Top Performance: By effectively managing laminitis and navicular disease, Arquel can help horses maintain their athletic abilities, enabling them to perform at their best.

Administration and Dosage: The administration of Arquel should always be supervised and prescribed by a qualified veterinarian. The dosage may vary depending on the severity of the condition and the individual horse. Veterinarians typically recommend an initial loading dose followed by a maintenance dose. It is crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and treatment duration to ensure the best possible outcome for the horse.

Considerations and Side Effects: While Arquel can provide significant relief for horses suffering from laminitis and navicular disease, it is essential to consider potential side effects. As with any medication, individual reactions may vary, and some horses may experience gastrointestinal disturbances or adverse effects on renal function. Close monitoring during treatment is necessary, and any concerns or changes in behavior should be promptly communicated to the attending veterinarian.

Conclusion: Meclofenamic Acid (Arquel) has emerged as a valuable tool in managing laminitis and navicular disease in performance horses. With its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties, Arquel aids in reducing pain, managing inflammation, and improving the overall comfort and well-being of affected horses. However, responsible and informed use, under the guidance of a veterinarian, is crucial to ensure the optimal treatment and minimize the risk of side effects. By leveraging the benefits of Arquel, horse owners and trainers can support their equine athletes in overcoming these challenging conditions and help them continue to excel in their performance endeavors.