Gastroduodenal ulceration associated with flunixin meglumine administration in three dogs

Abstract

In 3 clinically ill dogs, signs of gastroduodenal ulceration were first noticed within 7 days of beginning flunixin meglumine administration and included pyrexia, anorexia, weight loss, vomiting, melena, pain on abdominal palpation, and abdominal distention. One dog was euthanatized and 2 dogs recovered after surgical repair of the perforated ulcers and treatment of peritonitis. Prolonged administration of flunixin meglumine should be avoided, especially in debilitated dogs or when concurrently administering other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids.