Effect of tolfenamic acid in postpartum gilts and the performance of their piglets

Abstract

Postpartum dysgalactia syndrome (PPDS) is a common disorder affecting sows in intensive production systems. In most cases, hypogalactia is not clearly identified and assumes a subclinical aspect. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the effect of a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) based on tolfenamic acid as a prophylactic treatment for PPDS and the performance of suckling piglets. Gilts (n = 319) were randomly divided into two groups: a tolfenamic acid group (n = 157) and a control (n = 162). The tolfenamic acid group received a single intramuscular injection (1 ml/20 kg of 4% tolfenamic acid) after farrowing, whereas the control group received no treatment. The occurrence of PPDS was confirmed. All piglets (n = 4,466) were weighed at 1, 4, and 18 days of age. All litters were evaluated for weight gain, the occurrence of diarrhea, and mortality between 4 and 18 days of age. PPDS variables were analyzed using logistic regression. Piglet weights were analyzed based on covariance while considering the effects of initial weight and the presence of diarrhea. Tolfenamic acid had no significant effect on the incidence of PPDS. The tolfenamic acid group had a 0.41% lower piglet mortality rate until 18 days of age. Tolfenamic acid administered prophylactically to gilts after farrowing reduced piglet mortality during lactation and promoted weight gain.