Treating Pain [Drug Warning Signs]

January 4th, 2016 at 9:51 am EDT
Hello Friend,

A cheery Monday to you and your furry/no so furry family.

Welcome to 2016!

Today's article covers NSAIDS ( the common anti-inflammatory drugs), and then a list of clinical signs to watch for that warrant an immediate veterinary visit.  

I do advocate ALL the alternate options 1st. 

One such option is my supplement- you can use others, but just make sure they have Glucosamine, Chondroitin and MSM. Mine just also happens to have higher than typical levels of ingredients, and is proving helpful for thousands of pets.

My supplements are here:

Treating Pain in Your Dog  (Source: FDA)

Controlling your dog’s pain is essential to his overall well-being. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are a class of drugs commonly used to control pain and inflammation in dogs. NSAIDs help many dogs lead more comfortable lives.

What are NSAIDs?

NSAIDs help to control signs of arthritis, including inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and 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, chemicals produced by the body that cause inflammation. Some NSAIDs may also be used to control the pain and inflammation following surgery.
Your veterinarian may prescribe an NSAID to treat the pain of osteoarthritis in your dog or to control pain following a surgical procedure.

All NSAIDs approved for oral use in dogs and cats come with a Client Information Sheet (also known as the Information for Dog (Cat) Owner Sheet) that describes the drug’s side effects. Dog and cat owners should ask veterinarians for the Client Information Sheet when an NSAID is prescribed. These Client Information Sheets provide the pet owner with important information in a user-friendly manner regarding what can be expected from use of the drug, potential side effects, and the need to seek veterinary attention if problems occur. By accompanying each NSAID prescription with an Information for Dog Owner Sheet, a handy reference of valuable safety information and drug company contact information is readily available to the owner.

Veterinary NSAIDs approved for use in dogs:

ETOGESIC (etodolac) - not currently marketed
RIMADYL (carprofen)
METACAM (meloxicam)
DERAMAXX (deracoxib)
PREVICOX (firocoxib)
ZUBRIN (tepoxalin) - not currently marketed
NOVOCOX (carprofen)
VETPROFEN (carprofen)
CARPRIEVE (carprofen)
QUELLIN (carprofen)
OROCAM (meloxicam)
LOXICOM (meloxicam)
MELOXIDYL (meloxicam)
In the United States, there is one NSAID approved for up to 3 days use in cats: ONSIOR (robenacoxib) tablets

What should you discuss with your veterinarian?

NSAIDs offer pain relief and improved quality of life to many dogs. 

However, before giving an NSAID, or any drug, you should first talk to your veterinarian.

You should discuss:

  • what the NSAID is being prescribed for
  • how much to give
  • how long to give it
  • possible side effects
  • what to avoid while your dog is taking an NSAID
  • what tests are needed before giving an NSAID to your dog
  • how often should your dog be re-examined
  • your dog’s previous medical history and any previous drug reactions
  • all medications and products your dog currently receives
What should you know before giving your dog an NSAID?

  • Never give aspirin or corticosteroids along with an NSAID to your dog.
  • NSAIDs should be approached cautiously in dogs with kidney, liver, heart and intestinal problems.
  • Never give your dog an NSAID unless directed by your veterinarian.
  • Don’t assume an NSAID for one dog is safe to give to another dog. Always consult your veterinarian before using any medication in your pet.
  • Only give the NSAID as prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not increase the dose, the frequency, or the length of time you use the drug unless first discussing this with your veterinarian.

What side effects should you watch for?

Most NSAID-side effects are mild, but some can be serious, including death in rare situations. Common side effects seen with the use of NSAIDs in dogs may affect the kidneys, liver, and gastrointestinal tract and may include:

  • Not eating or eating less
  • Lethargy, depression, changes in behavior
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea, black tarry-colored stool
  • Yellowing of gums, skin, or the whites of the eyes
  • Change in drinking
  • Changes in skin (scabs, redness, or scratching)

What to do?

If you suspect a possible side effect to an NSAID, STOP giving the drug to your dog and call your veterinarian immediately!

When Giving Your Best Friend an NSAID, Remember these Signs:

  • Behavior Changes
  • Eating Less
  • Skin Redness, Scabs
  • Tarry Stool/Diarrhea/Vomiting
  • FRIEND
  • STOP the Drug & Call Your Veterinarian


Veterinary Secrets Pet of the Week!
This is Bugsy the Jack Russell Terrier who wishes all Happy Holidays :-)

If you would like your pet to be the Pet of the Week, please send a picture to
support@fourpawsonlineltd.com
Heal Your Pet At Home!

Best Wishes,

Dr Andrew Jones, DVM
P.S. If you have yet to TRY my supplements, I encourage you to do so, for now they are 50% OFF

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DISCLAIMER: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your own veterinarian. Dr Andrew Jones resigned from the College of Veterinarians of B.C. effective December 1 2010, meaning he cannot answer specific questions about your pet's medical issues or make specific medical recommendations for your pet.

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