Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID’s) are pharmaceutical substances which are prescribed for the treatment of muscle and joint injury, pain, swelling and inflammation. In the form of tablets, capsules and injections these can also be obtained by medical prescription or as dispensed by a pharmacist. These non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs contain however also be obtained in certain products which do not have a pharmaceutical schedule which are sold in shops without a prescription. The purchase and use of such preparations in racehorses can results in positive findings for these prohibited substances. These preparation are normally gel and plaster packs with trade names such as:

• Voltaren Emulgel containing Diclofenac
• Fastum containing Ketoprofen
• Transact containing Flurbiprofen 

It is important that care is taken when purchasing such substances and when using such preparations on horses. Consult with your veterinarian in this regard.