Side Effects of Rimadyl
Rimadyl is the most commonly prescribed pain reliever for dogs. It is successful in treating pain from a variety of causes from surgery to arthritis. It can have a negative effect on the digestive tract, however, and you must watch for the symptoms of this side effect when your dog is on the medication. The drug also can be hard on the liver, and you and your vet should take this into consideration before treating your dog with the drug. If you note any of these side effects, discontinue use and tell your vet right away.
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Uses
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Rimadyl is the brand name for carprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) used in dogs for the relief of pain and inflammation. Your vet may prescribe it after a surgery or for chronic pain. Unlike pure analgesics, Rimadyl does not cause drowsiness or affect motor skills, and its anti-inflammatory properties speed healing. It should not be used in conjunction with other NSAIDs because this can increase the possible negative side effects.
Ulcers
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A common side effect of Rimadyl is stomach ulcers. The chemical compounds in the drug act caustically on the stomach lining and, with long term-usage, can cause erosion of the lining and ulcers. The symptoms of stomach ulcers include loss of appetite, weight loss, poor hair coat and lethargy. More severe symptoms include anemia (from a bleeding ulcer), and, if the ulcer perforates the stomach lining, sepsis or an infection of the abdominal cavity, which can be fatal.
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Vomiting and Diarrhea
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The same caustic nature of the medication that causes ulcers also can cause nausea resulting in vomiting. The caustic effect is not confined to the stomach; it can affect the entire gastrointestinal tract. The irritated bowel will not function normally, which will cause diarrhea. If you notice these signs, discontinue using Rimadyl immediately. If the vomiting and diarrhea are left untreated, they could lead to dehydration, which could be life threatening.
Liver Effects
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The liver metabolizes Rimadyl, so the drug is contraindicated for dogs with liver problems. Dogs that are on the medication for chronic problems such as arthritis are at risk for developing liver problems. Often, these problems subside when the dog is taken off the medication. Your vet should evaluate your dog's liver enzymes regularly to assess how the liver is handling the medication.
Treating Side Effects
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If any of these side effects occur, your vet usually can treat them with medication or by discontinuing the medication. The animal may require hospitalization, fluid therapy and medication. If the dog needs the pain relief for a chronic condition, your vet may seek out other medications that offer relief but spare the stomach and liver.
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