Biochemical and Histopathological effects of Meloxicam in Rabbit

Dr. Abrar Ahmad, studied Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and M. Phil Veterinary Pharmacology from Sindh Agriculture University Tandojam, Pakistan.

Meloxicam usage in veterinary practice is remarkably increased in the past few years as it was demonstrated in a variety of animal models to be an eco-friendly substitute for Diclofenac which caused catastrophic decline in vulture population in the sub-continent. It has been shown that Meloxicam possess higher therapeutic index compared to other NSAIDs such as diclofenac, indomethacin and piroxicam. Meloxicam has been shown to hold excellent tolerability at various routes of administration however keeping in mind the veterinary norms, it is generally recommended for parenteral usage especially in large animals. Several studies has been made in the past to test pharmacokinetic profile, expected renal or hepatic injury through serum biochemical indicators and histopathological examination, analgesic effects and the risk for gastrointestinal ulceration. Despite the fact that meloxicam has proven reason to be the best substitute to either diclofenac or any other conventional NSAID in animals and avian species, still there are plenty of reports which showed toxicities on organs.