What Is the Medication Rimadyl Used for in Dogs?

Rimadyl may help arthritis pain.

Rimadyl, released in the U.S.A. in 1997, is a brand name for the drug carpofen. Carpofen is also available in generic form and under the brand name Novox. It is an NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) which is available in caplets, chewable pills and injectable forms.

Arthritis

Rimadyl is commonly prescribed to help dogs that have mild to moderate arthritis pain.

Leg Pain

Rimadyl is prescribed for dog leg pain. Dogs have a variety of leg problems including elbow dysplasia, hock, cruciate or stifle injuries and muscle strains.

Surgery

According to Vetinfo, Rimadyl is prescribed to manage pain and inflammation for dogs after orthopedic or soft tissue surgeries. According to the official Rimadyl site, Rimadyl is the only approved NSAID injectable for dogs after surgery.

Long-term

Unlike morphine and other narcotic medications, Rimadyl is given to dogs that need long-term pain management.

Precaution

According to VeterinaryPartner, since most adverse side-effects usually occur within the first two weeks, a baseline blood work should be done before starting Rimadyl, two weeks later and then every six months. Side effects may include stomach ulcer, nausea, diarrhea, kidney problems and bleeding. A rare side effect is liver function damage. Side effects are more common in older dogs.

References

• VeterinaryPartner: Carprofen (Rimadyl)
• Rimadyl: Managing Pain with RIMADYL (carprofen)
• Vetinfo: Managing Dog Leg Pain with Carprofen

Resources

• The Senior Dogs Project: Rimadyl: News, Views & Advisories
• International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management: Dogs
• Vetinfo: vetinfo4dogs.com Dog Dysplasia Pain Management with Adequan