You cannot be rearing sheep and not have some medications as first aid treatment. Every sheep owner needs medications like antibiotics, pain killers, and dewormers (antihelminthics). One of the most recommended pain relievers for sheep is Flunixin meglumine, commonly sold under the brand name Banamine. Flunixin meglumine is available in paste and injection.
Banamine (Flunixin meglumine) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that helps sheep reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. Flunixin meglumine works by blocking inflammatory proteins, which is what causes fever and pain in sheep; it reduces inflammation by decreasing the production of prostaglandins, which are important inflammatory mediators.
Uses of Banamine
The most common use of Banamine for sheep is to treat pains resulting from injuries. This medication also reduces inflammation and swelling from infections, making it easier for your sheep to move around. Banamine also reduces fever and will help your animal feel better overall. In addition to these, Banamine also treats the following conditions in sheep:
- Abrasions and cuts
- Mastitis
- Infections
- Coughs and colds
- Indigestion and diarrhea
Banamine For Sheep Dosage
The recommended banamine for sheep dosage is 0.5 mg per pound of body weight (1 mL/100 lbs). Flunixin meglumine duration of action is 12 hours. Banamine can be administered subcutaneously (under the skin) or orally once a day for up to 5 days consecutively. Banamine injectable liquid must not be given to sheep intramuscularly because it can cause a bacterial infection called clostridial myositis, sheep and goats receive flunixin injection under the skin only, not in the muscle.
Banamine Side Effects
Sheep are likely to experience some side effects when given Banamine; these side effects include:
- Decreased appetite
- Stomach and intestinal irritation
- Tremors
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drowsiness
Flunixin meglumine also has a sedative effect on some animals. Each animal responds differently to Flunixin meglumine; some may feel no effects from it at all while others may become sleepy or even unable to walk. If you are unsure whether the medicine will work for your animal, consult your veterinarian before administering it.
Banamine is an excellent pain reliever for sheep; you should follow the recommended dosage to mitigate banamine side effects and facilitate effective treatment.