Active ingredient
Diclofenac for Animals: Mechanism, Doses by Species & Brands
In veterinary medicine diclofenac is used as a 1% topical cream for joint osteoarthritis in horses (Surpass), applied twice a day for up to ten days [1]. India removed diclofenac from veterinary practice in 2006 to protect vultures [2].
- Drug class
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
- Brands on this site
- Surpass
What diclofenac is used for
- Horses: pain and inflammation of osteoarthritis in the hock, knee, fetlock and pastern joints — topical cream [1].
How diclofenac works (mechanism of action)
Diclofenac is an NSAID; NSAIDs reduce prostaglandin production by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) [3].
Safety, contraindications and precautions
Brands that contain diclofenac
| Brand | Company | Contains | Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surpass | Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health | Diclofenac | USA (FDA label) |
Frequently asked questions
Is veterinary diclofenac allowed in India?
No — it was removed from veterinary practice in India in 2006 to protect vultures [2].
Have a case in front of you?Ask WeVet — the AI assistant built for veterinarians. Differentials, treatment plans with calculated doses, drug info from trusted sources and SOAP notes.
Ask WeVet about thisMedically reviewed by
Dr. Ravi Baraiya, B.V.Sc.
Veterinarian · Reviewed 2 Nov 2026
References
- SURPASS (1% diclofenac sodium) topical cream — FDA labeling
Passage read from this source
SURPASS topical cream contains 1% diclofenac sodium.
Apply a five-inch (5") ribbon of SURPASS topical cream twice daily over the affected joint for up to ten days.
Wear gloves to prevent absorption into the hands.
Do not use in horses intended for human consumption.
- Bans on two more veterinary drugs linked to vulture deaths in India
Passage read from this source
to remove Diclofenac from veterinary practice in India in 2006.
- Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs in Animals
Passage read from this source
NSAIDs act primarily to reduce the biosynthesis of prostaglandins by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX).
For veterinary professionals. Information supports — never replaces — clinical judgement; always check the current product label and local regulations.