Pharmacodynamic properties
Flunixin meglumine is a potent non-steroidal, non-narcotic analgesic with anti-inflammatory, anti-endotoxic and anti-pyretic activities. It acts as a reversible non-selective inhibitor of the enzyme cyclo-oxygenase (both COX 1 and COX 2 forms) reducing the synthesis of eicosanoids involved in tissue inflammation, central pyresis and pain. Flunixin also inhibits the production of thromboxane, a potent platelet pro-aggregator and vasoconstrictor which is released during blood clotting.
Although flunixin has no direct effect on endotoxins, it reduces prostaglandin production and hence the effects of the prostaglandin cascade that is part of the complex processes involved in the development of endotoxic shock.

Pharmacokinetic particulars
After oral administration of the veterinary medicinal product to horses at a dose of 1.1 mg flunixin / kg body weight maximal plasma concentrations of 4.7 (± 1.1) µg/ml were reached after approximately 1.5 hours. The AUCi of flunixin was 26.2 (± 5.2) µg.hr/ml and elimination took place with a half-life of around 6 hours.
Compared to intravenous administration, a bioavailability of approximately 80 % is achieved. Flunixin strongly binds to proteins and accumulates in the inflammatory exudate, resulting in delayed elimination.

Environmental properties
Flunixin is toxic to avian scavengers although foreseen low exposure leads to low risk.