Rimadyl

What is Rimadyl?

Rimadyl is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) used to treat pain and inflammation due to arthritis and other joint diseases, including hip dysplasia. It's also used to reduce pain associated with surgery or dental procedures, as well as to reduce fever. Rimadyl works by reducing hormones that cause pain and inflammation in the body. Rimadyl may also be used for purposes other than those listed here. Rimadyl requires a prescription from your veterinarian.

Suitable For:

Dogs (over six weeks of age)

Benefits:

• Can be given as a single daily dose
• Effective
• Easy to administer available as a chewable tablet or caplet
• Well tolerated by dogs

How does Rimadyl work?

Rimadyl works by reducing hormones that cause pain and inflammation in your dog's body.

Cautions:

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: As a class, NSAIDS may be associated with gastrointestinal, kidney and liver side effects. These are usually mild, but may be serious. Pet owners should discontinue therapy and contact their veterinarian immediately if side effects occur. Evaluation for pre-existing conditions and regular monitoring are recommended for pets on any medication, including RIMADYL. Use with other NSAIDS or corticosteroids should be avoided.

Brand Name:

Rimadyl (Pfizer Animal Health)

Generic Name:

Carprofen

What is the most important thing I should know about Rimadyl?

Rimadyl is a prescription medication that is FDA-approved for use in dogs. Rimadyl is available as 25 mg, 75 mg, and 100 mg pork liver flavored chewable, scored tablets. Rimadyl is also available as 25 mg, 75 mg, and 100 mg capsule shaped scored non-chewable tablets (Caplets). The usual total daily dose in dogs is 2 mg/lb given as a single daily dose or divided and administered as 1mg per pound twice a day . Contact your veterinarian if your pet has bloody, black, or tarry stools as these symptoms could indicate damage to the stomach or intestines, which could be dangerous. Before giving your pet any prescription or over-the-counter medications, check with your veterinarian or pharmacist.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Rimadyl to my pet?

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has: an allergy to aspirin or any other NSAID; an ulcer or bleeding in the stomach; liver or kidney disease; congestive heart failure; fluid retention; bleeding disorders; heart disease; high blood pressure. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant or lactating.

How should Rimadyl be given?

Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. If you do not understand the directions ask the pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. Rimadyl should be given with food. Keep plenty of water available for your pet. Do not give Rimadyl to cats.

What are the potential side effects of Rimadyl?

Contact your veterinarian if your pet has bloody, black, or tarry stools, or blood in vomit as these symptoms could indicate serious side effects. If any of the following serious side effects occur, stop giving Rimadyl and seek emergency veterinary medical attention: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips, tongue or face; hives), muscle cramps, open sores in the mouth, rapid weight gain due to fluid retention, seizures, or abdominal cramping. If your pet experiences any of the following less serious side effects, continue giving Rimadyl and talk to your veterinarian: headache, dizziness, nausea, diarrhea or constipation, depression, fatigue or weakness, or dry mouth. Other side effects may also occur. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to your pet.

What happens if I miss giving a dose of Rimadyl?

Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not give a double dose of the medication.

What happens if I overdose my pet on Rimadyl?

Seek emergency veterinary medical treatment. Symptoms of Rimadyl overdose include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, drowsiness, headache, blurred vision, seizures, panting, little or no urine production, and slow breathing.

What should I avoid while giving Rimadyl to my pet?

Many over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, and pain medicines that contain aspirin or other NSAIDs similar to Rimadyl. Before giving any other prescription or over-the-counter medications, talk to your veterinarian or pharmacist.

What other drugs will affect Rimadyl?

Tell your veterinarian if your pet is being given aspirin; another NSAID such as etodolac, carprofen, or piroxicam; any over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, or pain medication; warfarin; furosemide; a steroid such as prednisone; insulin; or probenecid. Drugs other than those listed may also interact with Rimadyl. Talk to your veterinarian before giving your pet any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.