Banamine® (Flunixin Meglumine) Paste

Paste medications are thick and sticky, usually given by mouth using a syringe or tube. They’re often used for dewormers or other oral meds in horses, dogs, and cats. The key is to aim for the back of the mouth so your pet swallows the paste instead of spitting it out.

For Horses:

1. Set the dose on the syringe if it has markings (usually based on weight).
2. Stand beside your horse, not in front, and have someone hold them if possible.
3. Gently insert your thumb into the side of the horse’s mouth (between the teeth) to open it.
4. Insert the syringe into that gap and squirt the paste toward the back of the tongue.
5. Lift the horse’s head slightly and encourage swallowing by stroking the throat or gently blowing on the nostrils.
6. Watch for licking or chewing—that means they swallowed. If paste spills out, check how much was lost and contact your vet if unsure.
7. You can offer a little water afterward and reward them with a treat like a carrot if allowed.

For Dogs & Cats:

1. Gently open your pet’s mouth or slip the syringe into the side of it.
2. Aim toward the back of the tongue and squirt the paste in.
3. Hold the mouth closed briefly, and rub the throat or blow gently on the nose to encourage swallowing.
4. Give praise or a treat afterward to make it a positive experience.

Aftercare:

1. Wipe your pet’s mouth if needed.
2. Clean or recap the syringe as instructed.
3. Store the tube according to label directions.

Tip: Paste can feel weird to pets at first. For horses, try giving applesauce by syringe ahead of time so they get used to the sensation.

Veterinarians most commonly consider Banamine when a horse is presented with clinical signs of visceral discomfort, such as those associated with equine colic. It is frequently a point of discussion for managing localized tissue stress resulting from musculoskeletal disorders or following surgical procedures where pain management is a clinical objective. In livestock, veterinarians may discuss its use in the context of bovine respiratory disease or acute mastitis to manage the systemic inflammatory response.

At a pharmacological level, flunixin meglumine acts as a non-selective inhibitor of the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. By inhibiting both COX-1 and COX-2, the medication disrupts the biosynthesis of prostaglandins, which are the primary lipid compounds responsible for mediating inflammation, fever and certain types of discomfort. Banamine is characterized by its rapid onset of action and its significant potency—it is often cited as being significantly more potent than aspirin in certain species. Your veterinarian will determine the appropriate application of Banamine based on species, weight and the specific nature of the clinical presentation.

The actions described here reflect the product's FDA-approved labeling; your veterinarian determines the appropriate use for your animal.

Prescription only. Use only under the direction of a licensed veterinarian. This information is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, prescribing or monitoring.

Commonly observed effects of Banamine administration include gastrointestinal changes such as decreased appetite or localized irritation at the site of injection. In horses, prolonged use or high doses are associated with gastric or colonic ulceration and potential shifts in kidney health. Owners should watch for subtle behavioral shifts, such as grinding teeth, "girthiness" or changes in manure consistency. Because Banamine can mask clinical signs of a worsening condition, particularly in colic cases, your veterinarian will provide specific guidance on monitoring intervals. If you observe dark, tarry stools, persistent lethargy or signs of physical distress, contact your veterinarian promptly.

This medication is typically used with extra caution or avoided in patients with known renal impairment, hepatic disease or active gastrointestinal ulceration. It is also carefully evaluated in pregnant or lactating animals, as the safety profile for developing foals or livestock offspring is a point of professional consideration. Before starting a protocol, ensure your veterinarian has a complete history of all other prescriptions and supplements your pet is receiving, as Banamine may interact with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids, increasing the risk of adverse effects. Your veterinarian is the right person to assess your pet's individual health status and provide guidance on the necessary diagnostic follow-ups to ensure the management approach remains suitable.