Bute question

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odd1

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my 3yo has just come back from 4 operations on her leg (3 on tendon sheath 1 on pastern) she was on 1/2 bute twice a day but when that stopped she went very sore so is now on 1/2 once a day and huge difference but i am wondering if its more the change in weather thats helping her rather than the bute
would 1/2 bute once a day make a huge difference to a 520kg horse??
 
I think it really does make a difference. My cob has mild arthritis and when he is sore half a sachet really takes the edge off for him. He is by all accounts a bit of a wimp though!
 
Yes, it can make a big difference. As far as I know, Bute is a cumulative drug - in other words, it builds up in the system over time and prevents pain - that's why you have a loading dose to begin with to kick start it. Its also the reason why you need to stop giving it for 3 or 4 days before getting a lameness check because it takes time to stop working.
 
You are thinking of the 'amount given' in the wrong way. Bute given on a regular basis gives a pain relief at a consistant level.

I would think your vet advised a loading period followed by a gradual lessening of the amount given with the ultimate goal of keeping the horse comfortable on a minimal amount - hence half a packet twice a day keeps your boy comfy. If you stop it, find he is uncomfortable and need to start it again you would need to load him up and start the process again.
 
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