The Kentucky Equine Drug Research Council has recommended horsemen discontinue the use of naproxen at least five days before a horse is scheduled to run to avoid facing a penalty if the horse tests positive for the drug on race day.

Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug and a potent pain reliever. The drug is often prescribed for lameness, musculoskeletal pain from soft tissue injury, muscle soreness, and bone and joint problems.

Connie Whitfield, chairwoman of the drug council and the vice chair of the Kentucky Horse Racing Authority, said the advisory guideline would go before the full KHRA April 17. She said the recommendation regarding naproxen was issued due to the problematic nature of the drug and its withdrawal time.

Recent studies have indicated naproxen accumulates in tissue, is metabolized and excreted extremely slowly, and can remain in a horse at an elevated level even when use of the drug is discontinued more than 48 hours before a race. The new medication rules in Kentucky authorize use of one of three NSAIDS not less than 24 hours before the time the horse is to race