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Choosing an Arthritis Medicine for Dogs

Dogs > Arthritis / Bone and Joint Disease > Choosing an Arthritis Medicine for Dogs

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.

Symptoms

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:

Difficulty getting up, lying down, sitting, squatting, standing, jumping or climbing
Reluctance to play, walk or move up and down stairs
Limping
Slow movement
Joint tenderness
Change in gait or pace
Inflammation, stiffness, heat, swelling and/or pain in and around joints

Treatment

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.

NSAIDs

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:

Previcox (firocoxib) - chewable tablet
Etogesic (etodolac) - tablet
Metacam (meloxicam) - oral drop or injection
Rimadyl (carprofen) - caplet, chewable tablet or injection
Deramaxx (deracoxib) - chewable tablet
Novox (generic carprofen) - caplet
Zubrin (tepoxalin) - disintegrating tablet

Discontinue use if any of the following signs develop:

Vomiting, diarrhea or tarry, black or bloody stools
Change in urinary habits (color, frequency or smell)
Lethargy, aggression, seizure or confusion
Jaundice (yellowing of gums, skin or eyes)
Red, itchy skin
Decrease/increase in appetite or thirst
Corticosteroids

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:

Kidney damage or failure
Gastric ulcers
Skin damage
Weight gain
Irritability
Increased thirst
Increased risk of pancreatitis
Panting
Immune system suppression, leading to other sicknesses

Alternative Arthritis Dog Medicine

Other helpful components (found in arthritis medicines in small doses) which can be added to your dog's diet as supplements are:

Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids - anti-inflammatory, increases blood flow
Manganese and Ascorbic Acid - promotes strong bones, processes glucosamine
Aloe Vera - reduces swelling and inflammation
Methylsulfonylmethane(MSM) - supplies sulfur
Yucca (manioca) - a root that increases the body's ability to produce cortisone naturally to relieve pain
Bromelaine - reduces pain and swelling and restores fluid balance
Vitamins - vitamins A (beta carotene), C (ascorbic acid) and E (tocopheral)

also see Arthritis Treatment Using Deramaxx for Dogs

also see Alleviating Orthopedic Problems with Dog Braces

also see Maintaining Joint Health for Dogs Through Nutrition

also see Older Dog Health Concerns and Treatments