Etodoloac is a non steroidal pain medication that can be used in dogs that suffer form arthritis or joint pain. Arthritis is a condition that cannot be cured, but if the pain and swelling are managed, the dog will be comfortable. Etodolac can manage both symptoms of arthritis and consequently, it is commonly used in arthritis dogs.
Uses of Etodolac
Etodolac is a prescription drug that is also marketed as Lodine and EtoGesic. Etodolac belongs to the non steroidal anti inflammatory class of drugs (NSAIDs).
The Etodolac compounds are effective in reducing:
- Swelling
- Pain
- Fever
The drug is often used in dogs with arthritis, infections that cause fever or to reduce muscular swelling or pain.
The drug has been FDA approved for veterinary use.
Dosage Information
The dosage of Etodolac will be established by the vet. Etodolac is only available through prescription and may be administered as tablets or injections. The dosage will be established judging by the dog’s condition, the severity of the dog’s condition, the age of the dog and his weight.
If your dog requires Etodolac, you should follow the dosage guidelines as indicated by the vet. Don’t administer more pills than your vet recommends, not even if you notice your dog is in pain. If you suspect the drug is not effective in managing the dog’s pain, visit the vet and let the vet know about the dog’s symptoms.
Etodolac Side Effects
Etodolac may have some common side effects, experienced by most dogs that get treatment:
- Rashes on the skin
- Lack of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Changes in the frequency of the urination
- Fever
- Blisters on the surface of the skin
- Skin flaking
Even if Etodolac is a non steroidal anti inflammatory drug, it may have severe side effects such as
- Blood in the feces
- Blood in the vomit
- Jaundice (yellow shade of eyes)
- Gastric ulcers
- Seizures
If the side effects are severe, you should notify the vet and the treatment should be immediately discontinued.
Etodolac Allergies
Some canines may be allergic to Etodolac or the compounds of the drug and may develop allergic reactions that may range from mild to severe.
The mild allergic reactions will include skin rashes and itchiness, which are temporary symptoms and should disappear if the dog gets used to the treatment.
However, some dogs may develop severe allergies to Etodolac, manifested through:
- Breathing difficulties
- Swelling of the paws
- Swelling of the face, tongue and throat
Should these reactions occur, the dog has to be taken to an emergency clinic.
Contraindications
Etodolac shouldn’t be used in small dog breeds or dogs that weigh less than 11 pounds. The compounds may be toxic for small dogs and may cause severe liver damage.
Etodolac may not be a solution for dogs that have gastric ulcers or frequent digestion problems.
Etodolac is not recommended for pregnant or lactating dogs.