Comparative toxicity studies in birds using nimesulide and diclofenac sodium

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Pharmacology
• Toxicology
• Animal Science

Background:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used in veterinary medicine.
• Concerns exist regarding the toxicity of NSAIDs, such as diclofenac sodium, in avian species.
• Nimesulide, a sulfonanilide derivative, has potential therapeutic applications in poultry.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the toxicity of nimesulide and diclofenac sodium in poultry.
• To evaluate the safety profile of nimesulide in avian models.

Main Methods:

• Vanaraja and PB1 birds (6 weeks old) were divided into five groups.
• Groups were treated with nimesulide (2 and 5 mg/kg), diclofenac sodium (5 mg/kg), or vehicle.
• Observations included mortality, weight gain, hematology, serum biochemistry, and histopathology over 28 days.

Main Results:

• Diclofenac sodium treatment resulted in 40% mortality within 12 days.
• Nimesulide treatment did not cause mortality or adverse effects.
• Diclofenac sodium caused significant increases in serum creatinine, cholesterol, alkaline phosphatase, and aspartate aminotransferase, and induced liver and kidney lesions.
• Nimesulide did not cause significant changes in these parameters or histopathological lesions.

Conclusions:

• Nimesulide demonstrated a favorable safety profile in poultry compared to diclofenac sodium.
• Diclofenac sodium exhibits significant toxicity in poultry, affecting mortality, organ function, and tissue integrity.
• Nimesulide represents a potentially safer NSAID option for avian applications.