Flunixin inhibits prostaglandin E2 production in equine inflammation

A model of acute inflammation was used in a cross-over study in Welsh mountain ponies to assess the actions of flunixin meglumine on selected components of a localised inflammatory reaction induced by injecting 0.5 ml of a 2 per cent carrageenin solution into subcutaneously implanted tissue cages. Samples of exudate were harvested at predetermined times between three and 48 hours. Increases in leucocyte numbers and protein concentration were not prevented by flunixin treatment. Prostaglandin E2-like activity was present in exudates from untreated ponies with the highest mean concentration occurring at 12 hours. The production of prostaglandin E2-like activity by the inflamed tissues of treated animals was blocked by flunixin for at least 24 hours.