11/17/2025
Here's another post in our series of how you can prevent equine emergencies!
*Overdoses of Bute/Banamine*
Many owners aren’t aware of the potential toxic effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drugs we commonly use in horses, such as bute, Banamine and Equioxx. While they're readily found in many first aid kits and tack boxes, owners should know that overdoses can have potentially deadly consequences, including severe right dorsal colitis and kidney damage.
If your horse needs one of these drugs, be aware that you should use a limited dose, never more frequently than every 10-12 hours unless on the advice of your vet, and never in combination with other NSAIDs.
These days many horses live on a daily dose of Equioxx, but you should be aware that "stacking" another NSAID like bute, Banamine or ketofen on top of Equioxx can magnify the risk and severity of side effects.
If your horse is colicking or lame and doesn’t respond to your first dose, don’t give more and don’t give another type, without calling your vet to discuss first.
Dehydration and tying up (rhabdomyolysis) can worsen the effects of this drug class and make kidney and GI tract damage more likely and more severe, so be extra cautious in these scenarios.
Remember these are powerful prescription drugs and need to be used with careful consideration for both their benefits and potential negative consequences.
