Rimadyl (Carprofen)

Rimadyl (Rx) (Carprofen)was recently approved for use in dogs in theUnited States. It has been available in other countries for some time.It is reported to be much less likely to cause gastrointestinal upset and kidney damage than older non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medicationssuch as aspirin or phenylbutazone. It is reported to be very effectivein conversations on the veterinary mailing lists and bulletin boards. Withall new medications there is a period of time when everyone is worriedthat an unforeseen side effect may occur. The U.S. is a huge market comparedto other countries and the really rare problems tend to show up fasterhere than in smaller markets. The presently available data suggests thatthis is a safer and possibly more effective treatment than other NSAID medications, though.

Gastric upset is less common with carprofen than with other non-steroidalanti-inflammatory medications but it still can occur.

Rimadyl will cause liver damage in somedogs. There have been some deaths in dogs with this reaction. This effects 0.02%of dogs and 70% of those are geriatric. More information can be found byconsulting the Small Animal Clinics of Pharmacology's latest edition.. This isa remarkable drug for many dogs. Blood work however should be done prior tobeginning treatment and one or two weeks into treatment  to monitor livervalues.

 

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