Print

Treatment

During cases of endotoxemia, horses must be treated immediately for it to have any success. There are several courses of treatment and supportive care, including intensive antibiotics, IV fluid therapy to help maintain hydration and support the cardiovascular system, and administration of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as flunixin meglumine (Banamine), which helps with the horse's pain, controls inflammation, and counteracts the endotoxin. Plasma transfusions are also sometimes used.

Living and Management

Endotoxemia is an extremely dangerous condition and even cases that receive aggressive treatment may not recover. Additionally, endotoxemia can cause other problems such as laminitis (inflammation of the hoof) that can be debilitating. Prognosis is extremely guarded for any case of endotoxemia.