Rimadyl Dangers
When one of our pets is in pain, we contact the local veterinarian for advice on how to make it more comfortable. Rimadyl is a medication that can help relieve the pain and is approved for use in dogs. In spite of its success as pain reliever, Rimadyl does have major side effects that must be addressed.
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What is Rimadyl?
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Rimadyl, also known as carpofren, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication manufactured by Pfizer Incorporated. Rimadyl is prescribed by veterinarians for pain and inflammation that may be associated with arthritis or orthopedic surgery. According to Rimadyl.com, the medication is available in three forms: caplets, chewables and an injectable form used prior to surgery.
Early Side Effects
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According to the Dog Arthritis Care Guide, Rimadyl is associated with several early side effects that need to be reported to your dog's veterinarian immediately if they occur. Loss of appetite, bowl movement and urination changes are not always a cause for concern. If your dog refuses to eat for several days and experiences continuous bouts of diarrhea and difficulty urinating, medical intervention is necessary in order to avoid dangerous and sometimes fatal health situations.
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Stomach Problems
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Rimadyl's anti-inflammatory properties can take a toll on a dog's stomach. Just as NSAIDs are known to corrode the stomach lining in humans, Rimadyl can cause the same problem in dogs. In fact, Cesar Millan Incorporated reports that the most common side effect associated with Rimadyl is stomach ulcers. The development of a bleeding ulcer is also a possibility while taking Rimadyl. With a bleeding ulcer, blood vessels can burst and enter the digestive tract, causing bloody stool. The source of the bleeding must be found and corrected to prevent massive bleeding that can result in death.
Kidneys
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Rimadyl is associated with acute kidney disease, resulting in acute renal failure. According to Pet Education.com, acute kidney disease occurs suddenly and without warning. Increased thirst along with excessive drinking from the water bowl can be the first sign that kidney disease has developed. Although lack of urination is possible, some dogs experience an increase in urination. These conditions can quickly manifest into acute kidney failure, which can be fatal. Treatment with intravenous electrolytes to reverse dehydration is usually the first step in correcting the situation.
Liver
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Pet Place.com reports that Rimadyl can also have dangerous effects on the liver. Severe liver damage can lead to jaundice, which causes the skin to become discolored and turn yellow. Jaundice can also affect the gums and cause the whites of the eyes to turn yellow; a condition known as sclera. Muscle tremors and weakness can also develop as a result of liver damage, along with bleeding problems and a swollen abdomen. Liver symptoms that remain untreated can develop into full blown liver failure, which can be fatal.
Precautions
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Rimadyl is not safe for every dog, and a careful medical evaluation needs to be performed before use of the drug is considered. Pet Care Rx explains that Rimadyl is not recommended for dogs that have a history of hypersensitivity. Also, if your dog is pregnant or lactating, Rimadyl should be avoided until the pregnancy is over and the puppies are fully weaned. Dogs that are afflicted with stomach or gastrointestinal disorders should also not be prescribed Rimadyl.
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References
Resources
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