The future of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) use in international equestrian competitions is currently under open debate in an unprecedented two-day congress hosted by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) in Lausanne, Switzerland.

This "long-awaited" event on Aug. 16 and 17 provides a forum for an organized and scientifically informed debate on this "complicated and, at times, contentious subject," according to FEI President HRH Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein.

Since early this morning in Europe, top researchers from across the globe have been presenting the latest findings on NSAIDs and their effects in horses. "Since 1994, when the FEI stopped the use of NSAIDs in competition, much scientific knowledge has emerged, and it is time for us to review the effect that knowledge might have on our existing approach," Haya said in her foreword address.

The need for such a debate developed following the 2009 FEI decision during its General Assembly in Copenhagen to allow the use of three NSAIDs (phenylbutazone, flunixin meglumine, and salicylic acid) in competition. Although the decision was suspended, the FEI intends to readdress the issue at the 2010 General Assembly in Chinese Taipei in November