Rimadyl Side Effects
If your dog has arthritis, you know how difficult it can be for your dog to enjoy simple, everyday activities. Going for walks, playing fetch and even greeting you at the door can be simply impossible for dogs facing osteoarthritis. Arthritis is degenerative and currently incurable, but there are pain management solutions that can dramatically improve a dog’s quality of life. Rimadyl is the #1 veterinarian- prescribed NSAID for canine osteoarthritis pain.1
Rimadyl is a 24 hour non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) specifically designed to treat arthritis in dogs. This medication is known generically as carprofen, and reduces inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. It can also be used to treat postoperative pain from orthopedic procedures. Continuous use of Rimadyl to manage osteoarthritis has been proven to show improvement of clinical signs of arthritis in dogs.2 While this drug offers many benefits to arthritic dogs, there are some limitations of use.
Side Effects
Many dogs experience no side effects while taking Rimadyl, but it is important for dog owners to carefully observe their dog during treatment. Most of the side effects of NSAIDs are exacerbated by stomach, liver and kidney problems; if your dog has a reaction to this medication, it may be indicative of pre-existing conditions in those organs.3 If side effects are observed, it is advised that the owner contact their veterinarian to ensure that none of these signs indicate a life threatening reaction. Some of the side effects that have been noted in clinical trials are:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea or other changes in bowel movements
- Decreased appetite
- Change in water ingestion
- Change in urination habits
- Skin irritation
- Change in behavior
- Yellowing of gums, skin or whites of eyes
Other Considerations
While Rimadyl is a very effective treatment for dogs, it cannot be given to cats nor humans. Before your vet prescribes Rimadyl, it is important to determine that your dog is a good candidate for this medication. Your veterinarian should first run a blood test to ensure that your dog does not have any pre-existing liver conditions. Liver conditions increase the risk of adverse reactions for all NSAIDs. Additionally, dogs who have kidney disease or bleeding disorders should avoid Rimadyl.
Dogs that exhibit any sort of allergy to carprofen should not be given Rimadyl as carprofen is the generic form of Rimadyl. It is important to ensure that your dog is not taking other NSAIDs while taking Rimadyl and to discuss with your vet any medications your dog is taking before giving them Rimadyl. As with any medication, it is important to administer Rimadyl to your dog as your veterinarian prescribes.
Rimadyl & Your Pet
Rimadyl is a great option for many dogs who struggle with canine osteoarthritis. Many owners notice a significant change in their dog’s ability to lead a normal life once they have begun to take Rimadyl. We hope that this information will help you to identify side effects if they occur and ultimately improve your dog’s quality of life.
