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As pet parents, we’d do anything to prevent our canine companions from experiencing pain and discomfort. Whether they’re entering their golden years or recovering from surgery, our dogs may experience mobility issues that can cause pain. Carprofen may be prescribed by a vet to help.1
Learn more about what carprofen is, when it’s used, potential side effects, and administration information.
Carprofen, also referred to by the brand name Rimadyl®2, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) approved by the FDA to reduce pain and inflammation in dogs.1,3 Carprofen can come as chewable tablets and capsules that can be given at home, or as an injection given at the vet.1
Carprofen is used to treat both acute and chronic inflammation and pain. Typically, vets may prescribe carprofen to help with postoperative pain after soft tissue or orthopedic surgery, or to help manage pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis — a degenerative joint disease that can cause pain, stiffness, lameness, and decreased activity.3
When used as directed by a veterinarian, carprofen is designed to support your dog in pain reduction and regaining mobility. You may see improvement in your dog’s condition within a few days.3
When administered following dosage recommendations, carprofen is generally considered a safe NSAID for dogs. However, like any medication, it carries potential risks and side effects that should be carefully monitored for. Your dog’s medical history, health status, and current medications are all important factors taken into account when a vet determines if carprofen is safe for your dog.3
Some medications can interact adversely with carprofen, such as ACE inhibitors, other NSAIDs, corticosteroids, cyclosporine, insulin, diuretics, and anticoagulants.1
Dogs with bleeding disorders (such as Von Willebrand disease), a low platelet count, an NSAID allergy, or those already on another NSAID are generally not prescribed carprofen. Vets may also exercise caution when prescribing carprofen if your pet falls into the following categories:1,3
Your vet will likely perform blood work, a urinalysis, and a full examination prior to prescribing — along with follow-up tests — to help ensure carprofen is safe for your dog.1
Dogs may experience mild to more serious side effects after taking carprofen. A common side effect is an upset stomach — which could cause vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, temporary loss of appetite, and/or tiredness. While uncommon, some potentially serious side effects might include:1,3
In very rare cases, some of these side effects could lead to death.1,3 If your dog exhibits any complications or abnormal behavior, call your vet as soon as possible.
When given orally, the general recommended carprofen dose for dogs is 2 mg/lb (4.4 mg/kg) of body weight per day. This total daily dose can be administered as a single dose of 2 mg/lb of body weight once daily or divided into a 1 mg/lb (2.2mg/kg) dose given twice daily.3
Ultimately, your vet will determine the appropriate dosage for your dog based on their specific needs. So make sure to follow your vet's instructions. If you accidentally miss a dose, call your veterinarian for their professional advice as it’s not a good idea to give your dog more than one prescribed dose at a time.1
Carprofen is commonly prescribed to dogs to help relieve and manage their pain. It’s a dog-safe option belonging to the same class of drugs as ibuprofen and naproxen — which aren’t safe for dogs.3,4 Giving your dog carprofen could help improve their quality of life. But if you have any reservations, it’s a good idea to speak with your vet. They can discuss the benefits of carprofen, as well as the potential risks, for your pup specifically.
There may be alternative options for managing pain and reducing inflammation that your vet can help you assess. Some of these alternatives could include other NSAIDs, joint supplements, and canine therapies — such as acupuncture, massage, chiropractic therapy, and water therapy.
The cost of carprofen can vary depending on the retailer, dosage, and other factors. But the price shouldn’t be a barrier to helping your dog find some pain relief. With a dog insurance policy from MetLife Pet, you can be reimbursed up to 90% of the cost of covered medications — like carprofen — potentially making it more financially accessible.5
Enroll your pup today so you can have coverage for future unexpected expenses like surgeries, an arthritis diagnosis, physical therapy, X-rays, or diagnostic blood work. And with MetLife Pet, your dog won’t ever lose their coverage later just because they got older.5 Experience the difference pet insurance can make, get your free, personalized quote now.
