The Effect of Some Anti-inflammatory Drugs on Some Clinicopathological Parameters in Barki Sheep

Abstract

Anti-inflammatory drugs either steroidal or non-steroidal have a dual effect on the animal health. Although they enhance healing process, they seriously affect the clinicopathological parameters. This study aimed to compare the adverse effects of three common anti-inflammatory drugs on some hemato-biochemical parameters and spot the light on the importance of Matrix metalloproteinase-2,-9 (MMP-2, MMP-9) in monitoring the anti-inflammatory action of these drugs. Thirty ewes (1 year, 45 Kg) were randomly divided into 3 equal groups, 1 st group (DG) was treated with dexamethasone, 2 nd group (DIG) received dipyrone while Meloxicam was given to ewes of the 3 rd group (MG). Blood samples were taken on 0, 3, 7, 15 and 21 day post treatment. It was observed that DG showed a significant (P< 0.05) leukocytosis, neutrophilia, eosinophilia, lymphocytopenia at 3 rd and 7 th day accompanied by hypernatremia at the 3 rd day compared to DIG and MG. A significant (P< 0.05) decrease was recorded in MMP-2 and MMP-9 in all treated groups. MMP-2 and MMP-9 returned to their baseline values at 15 th and 21 st day respectively. The adverse effect of dexamethasone on the leukocytes and serum Na level is more prominent than dipyrone and meloxicam and lasts longer for leukocytes. MMPs may be useful in following up the anti-inflammatory action of dexamethasone, dipyrone and meloxicam.