If your dog is experiencing pain and inflammation, your veterinarian may prescribe carprofen. This common dog medication works in a similar way to human medications like ibuprofen, but is safe for dogs (unlike ibuprofen and many other human drugs).
Carprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain and inflammation in dogs.
Is Carprofen (Rimadyl) Safe to Give to Dogs?
When given at the prescribed dosage, carprofen is generally safe to give to dogs, says Dr. Michael Fleck, D.V.M., veterinarian and co-host of the nationally syndicated radio show, The Pet Buzz.
"Carprofen still serves as one of the most popular NSAIDs of choice prescribed by veterinarians because of its reputation of being safe," Fleck wrote in an email to Forbes Advisor. "[It] has a predictable effective performance and familiarity with repeated use."
Carprofen is not addictive and has been proven to successfully relieve pain, inflammation and fever in dogs.
Owners should follow their veterinarian's directions when administering carprofen to their dog to avoid any complications or adverse reactions.
What Are the Signs of a Carprofen Overdose in Dogs?
-Vomiting
-Blood in feces
-Diarrhea
-Stomach pain
-Inappetence
-Increased thirst
-Increased urination
-Lethargy
-Seizures
-Coma
-Death
How Veterinarians Treat Carprofen Overdoses in Dogs?
If your pup has recently helped themselves to a few Carprofen , your vet will try to decontaminate their stomach by inducing vomiting and giving activated charcoal. They will then provide supportive treatment, such as fluids and gastroprotective or anti-vomiting medications. Hospitalization may be required with continued monitoring of liver and kidney function.
For dogs with long-term Carprofen toxicity, discontinuing the medication will be a good first step. Further supportive treatment may be given, depending on the signs and severity.
This isn't something that you want to wait and see how it turns out or try to treat it at home. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog ate more than their regular dose of Carprofen, whether they're showing any signs or not.
