| Dogs > Arthritis / Bone and Joint Disease > Choosing an Arthritis Medicine for Dogs | |
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also see Over The Counter Dog Medicine
also see Dog Medicine
also see Canine Adequan
also see Cosequin Dog
also see Aspirin for Dogs
Finding an arthritis dog medicine that will help alleviate symptoms can be a daunting task. However, there are several prescription and alternative arthritis dog medicines available. Arthritis is the inflammation of the joints. The best dog arthritis medicine will not only relieve the pain and decrease the inflammation, but will also regenerate cartilage. Only a veterinarian should determine the proper medication and dosages.Arthritis can afflict any size, breed or gender of dog and it's more common in older dogs than young ones.
Some of the symptoms include:
Medicines containing glucosamine and chondroitin are used in treating this disease. They both are produced by the body and are extremely important in the formation and maintaining of the cartilage, ligaments, nails and tendons. These medications are supplemented with NSAIDs to reduce inflammation. Aspirin can be used but must be monitored for any adverse reactions.
One of the best dog arthritis medicines is NSAIDs (non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs), which suppresses a chemical in the body called cyclooxygenase. This chemical causes pain and joint inflammation. Common side effects include appetite loss, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea and depression. Common risks include ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney damage, digestive tract perforations and liver problems. NSAIDs can be administered in tablets, injections, drops or caplets. NSAIDs are prescribed by a veterinarian after a thorough examination, and are closely monitored by frequent testing to ensure that the drugs are not harming the body.
Common canine NSAIDs include:
Discontinue use if any of the following signs develop:
Sometimes a veterinarian will prescribe corticosteroids, such as prednisone or dexamethasone, if NSAIDs are not working. Though they can dramatically reduce pain, slow bone density loss, improve damaged cartilage and reduce joint inflammation, they do have some serious risks, particularly if they are used for a long period of time.
Some of the risks are:
Other helpful components (found in arthritis medicines in small doses) which can be added to your dog's diet as supplements are:
also see Side Effects of Chondroitin for Dogs
also see Common Canine Arthritis Medication Side Effects
also see Treating Arthritis With Rimadyl for Dogs
also see Canine Rheumatoid Arthritis Explained
also see A Guide to Homeopathic Remedies for Dogs
also see Identifying Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs
also see Recognizing Arthritis Symptoms in Dogs: 4 Warning Signs
also see Elbow Dysplasia