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  Discussion on How long does it take for bute to become effective
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Member:
Lant

Posted on Monday, Oct 21, 2002 - 6:10 pm:

This is for Dr. O. I did not see this particular question answered. I have an arabian gelding going through fusion of his tarsal joint. Bone spavin. I am to ride him to encourage the fusion. I use bute only when I ride him for any length of time. Question 1, how long does it take bute to become effective (when taken orally) I was told it could take up to 6 hours. Hence give it to him the night before. Ques 2. how long is it effective after it takes effect, Ques 3. Does a full or empty stomach effect how long it takes to take effect or how long it is effective? Thank you so much for your time as I am confused about the possibility of how feeding may effect the effectiveness of the bute. Terri Barney
Moderator:
DrO

Posted on Tuesday, Oct 22, 2002 - 6:46 am:

Hello Terri,
For a technical explanation of your questions see the scientific report in the article:
Dtsch Tierarztl Wochenschr 1996 Jun;103(6):224-30
The concentration changes of different phenylbutazone formulations in horse plasma.

There is a very large variation in absorption and if given orally following feeding may not reach maximal concentrations in the blood for 18 hours. But in no cases does it take more than one hour to reach the minimum therapeutic blood level.

You should experiment to see what works best for your horse but if you have 2 hours before you are going to ride you will get a benefit from gving it that morning. It will probably be better if given both the night before and the morning of. For best effect it should be given twice daily though you may get some effect for up to 2-3 days after discontinuing.
DrO
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