Pet Meds

The CVM (FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine), which regulates medications for use in animals, has approved some NSAIDs for use in dogs with pain from degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis) or with pain after surgery. These medications include:

• Etogesic (etodolac)
• Rimadyl (carprofen)
• Metacam (meloxicam)
• Zubrin (tepoxalin)
• Deramaxx (deracoxib)
• Previcox (firocoxib)
• Novox (generic carprofen)


NSAIDs help to control signs of arthritis, including:

• inflammation
• swelling
• stiffness
• joint pain
Inflammation (the body's response to irritation or injury) is characterized by redness, warmth, swelling, and pain. NSAIDs work by blocking the production of prostaglandins, the body chemicals that cause inflammation.
The FDA considers approved NSAIDs to be safe and effective when used according to the label and when dog owners are informed about common NSAID adverse reactions.


If a dog is prescribed an NSAID, the CVM recommends that pet owners take the following steps to make sure they are fully informed about the medication and can make the best decision for their dog's health.


Work With Your Veterinarian to Find the Best Arthritis Medication Available

Many NSAID choices are available, and selecting the best NSAID for a particular pet is important, says Sharkey. "Sometimes, the process of finding the best one can mean changing the prescription."
NSAIDs for dogs are made in many forms including: caplets, tablets, drops, and injections. Medications include:
• Etogesic (etodolac)(tablets)
• Rimadyl (carprofen)(caplets and chewable tablets; injection)
• Metacam (meloxicam)(drops given by mouth; injection)
• Zubrin (tepoxalin)(rapidly disintegrating tablets)
• Deramaxx (deracoxib)(chewable tablets)
• Previcox (firocoxib)(chewable tablets)
• Novox (generic carprofen)(caplets)

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