Cinchophen and Prednisolone
Combination of **cinchophen** (an older non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) and **prednisolone** (a glucocorticoid). Historically used for the management of osteoarthritis and inflammatory conditions in dogs. > **Clinical Pearl:** The concurrent use of an NSAID and a corticosteroid is generally contraindicated in modern veterinary practice due to a significantly compounded risk of severe gastrointestinal ulceration and perforation. This is a legacy product (e.g., PLT tablets) and requires extremely careful monitoring, particularly for hepatotoxicity associated with cinchophen.
Mechanism: **Cinchophen** acts as an NSAID by inhibiting **cyclooxygenase (COX)** enzymes → decreased synthesis of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins. **Prednisolone** is a synthetic glucocorticoid that binds to cytosolic receptors → alters gene transcription → inhibits **phospholipase A2** via lipocortin → decreases arachidonic acid release and reduces inflammatory cytokines.
Routes of administration
Contraindications
- Pre-existing gastrointestinal ulceration
- Hepatic impairment
- Renal impairment
- Concurrent use of other NSAIDs or corticosteroids
Adverse effects
- Gastrointestinal ulceration
- Hepatotoxicity
- Polyuria (PU)
- Polydipsia (PD)
- Polyphagia
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Melena
Drug interactions
- NSAIDs (other) · Increased risk of severe GI ulceration and perforation · major
- Corticosteroids (other) · Increased risk of severe GI ulceration and immunosuppression · major
- Other NSAIDs (e.g., Meloxicam, Carprofen) · Synergistic toxicity leading to severe gastrointestinal ulceration and perforation. · major
- Other Corticosteroids (e.g., Dexamethasone) · Synergistic toxicity leading to severe gastrointestinal ulceration and perforation. · major
- Furosemide · Increased risk of nephrotoxicity and gastrointestinal ulceration. · moderate
Monitoring
- Clinical signs of GI ulceration (vomiting, melena, anorexia)
- Liver function tests (ALT, ALP, AST, Bilirubin)
- Renal parameters (BUN, Creatinine)
Overdose
Overdosage significantly increases the risk of **gastrointestinal perforation**, severe **hepatotoxicity**, and acute renal failure. Treatment is supportive, including GI protectants (e.g., omeprazole, sucralfate), intravenous fluid therapy, and hepatoprotectants.
VetSheet drug reference is intended for licensed veterinary professionals as a clinical decision-support aid, not a substitute for professional judgement or the manufacturer’s current label.