Double-blinded placebo-controlled clinical field trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of topically applied 1% diclofenac liposomal cream for the relief of lameness in horses

• Published in: Veterinary therapeutics Vol. 5; no. 2; pp. 128 - 138
• Main Authors: Lynn, R.C, Hepler, D.I, Kelch, W.J, Bertone, J.J, Smith, B.L, Vatistas, N.J
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 2004
• Subjects: Administration, Topical; Animals; Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal - administration & dosage; Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal - adverse effects; Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal - therapeutic use; clinical trials; diclofenac; Diclofenac - administration & dosage; Diclofenac - adverse effects; Diclofenac - therapeutic use; Double-Blind Method; Female; Horse Diseases - drug therapy; Horses; Joint Diseases - drug therapy; Joint Diseases - veterinary; lameness; Lameness, Animal - drug therapy; Liposomes; Male; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents; ointments; Placebos; Safety; Severity of Illness Index; topical application; Treatment Outcome
• ISSN: 1528-3593

A topical 1% diclofenac liposomal cream proved to be safe, easy to use, and effective in reducing equine lameness caused by degenerative joint disease. Diclofenac liposomal cream was shown to reduce lameness as graded by owners and veterinarians, regardless of the severity or chronicity of the clinical condition. Topical application allowed for more convenient administration than oral or injectable agents, and no clinically relevant hematologic or serum biochemical changes were noted. The liposomal cream provided a delivery system for diclofenac, an NSAID, to achieve therapeutic levels locally with decreased risk for systemic toxicity and side effects and improved targeting of the painful area.