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Pet Medication Home -> Rimadyl For Dogs
"How
To Protect Your Dog From Canine Arthritis - Rimadyl for Dogs"
More than a made-for-TV
drug, as some people might consider it, Rimadyl for dogs is an effective
medication for arthritic animals that has changed the way veterinarians
treat dogs since 1997 when this product was launched. The active
ingredient, Carprofen, works pretty well for most dogs and you start
to see results after 4 or 5 days to get a good idea of whether it
will be beneficial to your pet.
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How can you know if your dog has arthritis? There
are obvious signs that may be an indication that under diagnosed
arthritis may already be present or early stages of this disease.
If your dog is slow to rise from a resting position and gets tired
easily or lags behind during long walks, if he limps or appears
stiff after activity and is reluctant to climb steps or jump up,
ask your veterinarian to examine your pet. The sooner this condition
is properly diagnosed and treated, the sooner your dog will have
relief from the pain become an active member of your family again.
The recommended dosage of Rimadyl for dogs is initially
one shot every week for 4 weeks and then one shot every 4 weeks
thereafter for the dog's life but only if your veterinarian prescribes
it after evaluate of your dog's condition. Older dogs are more likely
to develop arthritis and other health problems that become more
common with age. Contrary to cortisone, commonly used to treat arthritis
conditions, Rimadyl for dogs is less likely to cause adverse side
effects with long term use although Carprofen might cause liver
damage in some dogs; in fact the predominant breed reported as affected
by this reaction is the Labrador retriever, although other breeds
could be affected.
Gastric upset is less common with carprofen than with
other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications but it still can
occur so it is important to administer this medication only if prescribed
by your veterinarian. Confirmed reactions to Carprofen are showed
up most frequently in the first few days to weeks of treatment.
Contact your veterinarian promptly if your dog shows any intolerance
symptoms.
Rimadyl for dogs benefits a large number of dogs and
the harm caused to a very small number of dogs is reversible by
withdrawal of the drug. If your dog exhibits depression, lethargy,
decrease in appetite, or any other signs of illness after administer
the medication, discontinue use while your veterinarian test your
dog. A change in the dosage could be required to keep pet's happily
healthy and living life to the fullest.
 What
the vet says
Rimadyl (carprofen) is used to treat pain and inflammation from
conditions such as arthritis and other joint diseases including
hip dysplasia. It is also used to reduce fever. It is available
as 25mg, 75mg and 100mg scored caplets as well as 25mg, 75mg
and 100mg scored chewable tablets. The usual dose is 1mg/pound
by mouth every 12 hours. Do not use in cats. Do not use in pregnant
or nursing animals. Periodic liver and kidney function tests
must be done. (sold per tablet)
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Rimadyl FAQ
Brand Name(s)
Rimadyl (Pfizer Animal Health)
What is Rimadyl used for?
Rimadyl is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used in
dogs for the treatment of pain associated with surgery and dental
procedures. Rimadyl is also used for the treatment of inflammation
in dogs for conditions such as arthritis or hip dysplasia.
Availability
Rimadyl is a prescription medication available as scored caplets
and scored chewable tablets.
How should Rimadyl be used?
The usual dose of Rimadyl in dogs is 1mg/pound twice a day. The
dog should be examined and blood work performed prior to the beginning
of therapy. Kidney and liver function should be monitored during
treatment.
What are the side effects
Side effects include loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, dark
or tarry stools, increased thirst and urination, lethargy, incoordination,
seizure or behavioral changes. Symptoms of an allergic reaction
to this medication can include facial swelling, hives and rash.
What special precautions are there
This medication should not be used in animals allergic to Rimadyl
or other NSAIDS. It should not be used in animals with bleeding
problems such as stomach ulcers and Von Willebrand’s disease.
It should not be used in pregnant or nursing animals. It should
not be used in dogs that have kidney, liver or heart disease. It
should not be used in dogs that are dehydrated. It should not be
used in dogs with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or those who
are taking diuretics. This medication should be used with caution
when given with other NSAIDs such as aspirin and etodolac, or corticosteroids
such as prednisone. It should be given with food. Do not give this
medication to cats. Always tell your veterinarian and pharmacist
what other medications your pet is taking.
In the event of an overdose
Contact your veterinarian or veterinary emergency room. Symptoms
of overdose may include vomiting, diarrhea, blood in the stool,
increased thirst and urination, incoordination, seizures or behavioral
changes.
How should I store this medication
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed.
Store this medication at room temperature, away from excess heat,
light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Throw away any
medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Keep out of the
reach of children and pets.
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