Insights into Pain Management Strategies in Veterinary Medicine: Unraveling the Pharmacokinetics of Some Coxibs in Geese, Sheep, and Goats

Pain management in minor farm animal species, such as sheep, goats, and geese, remains an overlooked area in veterinary medicine, largely due to the lack of approved drugs and limited research funding. Despite their integral role in agricultural systems worldwide, these animals often face challenges in accessing effective pain relief, particularly during routine husbandry procedures and surgical interventions. Addressing this disparity is essential to uphold animal welfare standards, ensure sustainable farming practices, and meet consumer expectations for humane food production. In this context, the present series of studies on the detailed pharmacokinetics of coxibs in sheep, goats, and geese represents a critical effort to fill the knowledge gap and inform evidence-based pain management protocols tailored to the unique needs of minor farm animal species. The main findings from the present research can be summed as follows: Robenacoxib: In sheep, subcutaneous administration exhibited promising bioavailability, suggesting its potential suitability for practical use, particularly in peri-operative scenarios. Both oral and subcutaneous administration in goats showed high bioavailability, alongside indications of a potential flip-flop phenomenon, making them convenient for occasional use. However, challenges arose in geese due to RX's short half-life. Nonetheless, oral administration might be feasible based on cross-species observations, necessitating further investigation for safety and efficacy. Deracoxib: In sheep and goats, oral administration yielded promising profiles with relatively long half-lives. However, significant individual variability underscores the need for personalized dosing and further research on efficacy and safety. Geese displayed a moderate half-life, suggesting potential for intermittent use, pending further efficacy studies to confirm suitability.