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Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs () aim to reduce pain and inflammation in dogs struggling with chronic conditions and acute injuries. When prescribed by a veterinarian, these drugs can help a dog live comfortably and continue their regular activities.
As with all drugs, there can be side effects, some of which can be life-threatening. It鈥檚 important to talk to your veterinarian and learn about NSAIDs and whether they鈥檙e right for your dog.
What Are NSAIDs for Dogs?
Dr. Jerry Klein, 蜜桃视频 Chief Veterinarian, explains that NSAIDs are prescribed for dogs in many situations, such as when a dog suffers an injury, undergoes surgery, or deals with a chronic condition. NSAIDs work by blocking an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX). It also targets the production of prostaglandins, which are hormonal-like compounds that, among other things, can cause blood vessels to constrict or dilate.
While COX and prostaglandins have many positive functions, from protecting the stomach鈥檚 lining to maintaining circulation, they can cause discomfort in response to certain conditions.
鈥淢any NSAIDs work by blocking some or all COX, so fewer prostaglandins are produced,鈥� Dr. Klein says. 鈥淭here are several NSAIDs that are FDA-approved for dogs to control pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, as well as pain and inflammation after soft-tissue or orthopedic surgery.鈥�
When deciding whether to prescribe NSAIDs, your dog鈥檚 veterinarian will consider many factors, such as whether your dog is currently experiencing kidney or liver changes. Your vet will likely review any previous allergies your dog has had, medications they have recently, and pertinent health history. They may also consider your pet鈥檚 age, as some senior dogs are more prone to serious side effects than younger dogs. If prescribing NSAIDs isn鈥檛 right for your pet, your veterinarian may consider other alternatives.
Examples of NSAIDs for Dogs
notes that there are many NSAIDs currently marketed for use in dogs. They include:
Aspirin/Acetylsalicylic Acid
Veterinarians occasionally prescribe aspirin for dogs with certain joint conditions. In addition to treating mild to moderate pain, it can also prevent blood clots. Be sure to review the dosage instructions before administration, as aspirin overdoses can cause life-threatening side effects.
Carprofen
Rimadyl is the brand name for the generic equivalent, carprofen. Because this drug poses fewer side effects than other NSAIDs, it鈥檚 commonly used for dogs with long-term conditions. Your dog can take carprofen orally as a or , or your veterinarian can administer an injection. It鈥檚 typically administered every 12 hours in dogs.
explains that while uncommon, some dogs can develop hepatopathies, which refer to a group of liver diseases. One-third of dogs that develop these conditions are Labrador Retrievers. Your veterinarian may take your dog鈥檚 breed into consideration when creating their treatment plan.
When prescribed as a chewable, many dogs enjoy the taste of carprofen and may try to get into its pill bottle. As a result, carprofen is one of the most common drug overdoses seen at emergency veterinary hospitals. Since overdoses of any NSAID can lead to serious consequences, dog owners should ensure to put all pill containers in a secure location that their dog can鈥檛 access.
Grapiprant
Grapiprant, sold under the brand name 鈥淕alliprant,鈥� is a newer NSAID that . In high doses, it can cause gastrointestinal distress, so be sure to talk to your veterinarian about administering the drug appropriately. Grapiprant is typically administered once daily in dogs.
Meloxicam
Meloxicam (brand name 鈥溾��) aims to reduce inflammation and discomfort in dogs. It comes in many varieties as an injection, a gel, a , or . It can be used to address musculoskeletal conditions or as a post-operative measure. Metacam is usually administered once every 24 hours in dogs.
Firocoxib
Like many NSAIDs, (brand name 鈥�) treats musculoskeletal conditions and pain following orthopedic surgery. It鈥檚 available in a , and it may cause fewer gastrointestinal problems than other pain medications.
Deracoxib
Deracoxib (brand name 鈥溾��) helps with post-operative pain and soft-tissue inflammation. It鈥檚 available in a beef-flavored chewable tablet.
Potential Side Effects of NSAIDs in Dogs
Dr. Klein explains that the most reported side effects of NSAID use in dogs include:
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite
- Lethargy
- Dark, tarry stool (called 鈥渕elena鈥�)
- Diarrhea
Other serious side effects could include gastric ulcers, kidney failure, and intestinal perforations, all of which can lead to death. There鈥檚 good news, however. By being on the lookout for certain signs, you can ensure your dog gets the veterinary attention they need.
鈥淚f a dog on [an] NSAID starts to exhibit any of those signs, one should immediately stop the medication and contact a veterinarian as soon as possible to discuss the signs, the medications, and your dog,鈥� Dr. Klein explains. 鈥淥ne should not start to give these medications again until after [being] given the go-ahead by your veterinarian for your dog.鈥�
After giving your dog a new medication, write down any changes in their physical activity, appetite, and bowel movements. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, contact your veterinarian and report your observations. They may recommend continuing NSAID use or prescribe another drug.
Medication Alternatives to NSAIDs for Dogs
While NSAIDs are commonly prescribed for dogs with certain conditions, you may have reservations about the risks and side effects these medications pose. Fortunately, there are many treatment alternatives that can reduce your dog鈥檚 pain and promote their quality of life. and Librela are among the medications now available to dogs that aren鈥檛 NSAIDs.
- Adequan Canine: A monthly injectable medication, Adequan Canine can help control symptoms of arthritis and joint problems in dogs. It shouldn鈥檛 be used in dogs with kidney or liver impairment.
- Librela: Librela is also given as a monthly injection and is the first monoclonal antibody approved by the FDA for use in dogs. It鈥檚 also an option to help treat pain in dogs with osteoarthritis.
- Glucocorticoids: A class of drugs known as corticosteroids are used in both humans and dogs as anti-inflammatory medications. are one of two types of corticosteroids. Even though corticosteroid hormones are naturally produced in the adrenal glands, they can be prescribed to treat mild inflammation.
- Chondroprotective Drugs: Considered slow-acting and disease-modifying, are used to help conditions like osteoarthritis. They鈥檙e typically injectable or oral formulas.
- Chondroitin Sulfate:听Found in the cartilage of humans and animals, is used to help repair cartilage in dogs with osteoarthritis.
- 听Used in humans, dogs, and other animals, glucosamine is a naturally-occurring substance often used as an over-the-counter arthritis remedy. It鈥檚 one type of chondroprotective drug.
Non-Medication Alternatives to NSAIDs in Dogs
Depending on your dog鈥檚 condition, Dr, Klein says that your veterinarian may recommend:
- Physical therapy: Targeted exercise promotes circulation, builds muscle, and encourages the body to heal itself. Hydrotherapy for dogs is a common form of physical therapy. This may comprise using an underwater treadmill, swimming, or enjoying a warm whirlpool bath.
- Acupuncture: Acupuncture for dogs has existed for thousands of years. The practice involves inserting needles into 鈥渁cupoints鈥� where the nerves and blood vessels are close together. Acupuncture is a complementary therapy used with other treatment measures.
- Environmental modifications: Some musculoskeletal conditions in dogs stem from their lifestyle, diet, and physical activity. Rather than prescribe NSAIDs, your veterinarian may recommend a reduced-calorie diet (to help your dog lose weight), assistive walking devices (such as ), or an .
Talk to Your Vet Before Giving Your Dog NSAIDs
While many NSAIDs are readily available at drug stores, they鈥檙e also behind many of the 100,000 cases of pet poisoning in the U.S. each year. The dosages for human-intended and dog-intended NSAIDs are very different. Just a few milligrams could cause an overdose, leading to life-threatening symptoms and even death.
鈥淒ogs (and cats) are not small people,鈥� Dr. Klein emphasizes. 鈥淒og owners should never give their dog their own over-the-counter medications or any non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications that have not been prescribed for their particular dog by their veterinarian.鈥�
This article is intended solely as general guidance, and does not constitute health or other professional advice. Individual situations and applicable laws vary by jurisdiction, and you are encouraged to obtain appropriate advice from qualified professionals in the applicable jurisdictions. We make no representations or warranties concerning any course of action taken by any person following or otherwise using the information offered or provided in this article, including any such information associated with and provided in connection with third-party products, and we will not be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, exemplary or other damages that may result, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness or death.