Bute is usually given for musculoskeletal pain, such as lameness. Whereas Banamine is usually given for smooth muscle pain (ie: colic) or ocular discomfort (ie: corneal ulcers). Bute should only be given for a short duration of time as prolonged use can result in gastric ulcers or kidney and liver problems.

What do you give a horse for colic?

If there's minimal fluid, your veterinarian can use the tube to give mineral oil, water, and/or other laxatives. Mineral oil and laxatives may relieve an impaction, and water can rehydrate your horse. Both mineral oil and water can stimulate gut motility.

Can Bute cause colic?

Blikslager: We know that NSAIDs, such as bute and Banamine, can increase the risk of stomach ulcers, and that's one cause of colic. We don't know how long a horse must stay on bute to increase this risk, but in general, the more you use and the longer you use it, the more likely it is that a problem will develop.