In this video, Dr. Yvette Nout-Lomas talks about the applications for—and risks associated with—giving your horse phenylbutazone, most commonly known as ‘bute.’

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What is ‘Bute’

Phenylbutazone, or ‘bute’, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). This class of drugs includes things such as aspirin and ibuprophen in people.

Bute works by reducing cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme activity. Because of that, phenylbutazone reduces pain, inflammation, and fever in horses.

Phenylbutazone is commonly administered to equids. It can be given orally or intravenously.

Drug Cautions

Phenylbutazone can cause health issues in horses if given at too high of a dose or for too long a period of time. The drug can cause problems in the kidneys or GI tract. Extreme issues can include kidney damage or failure.

Owners should consult with their veterinarians before using bute. This is especially true if the horse is getting other NSAIDs or antibiotics.

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