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Home > Drug Category > Pet Medication > Rimadyl and Equivalent

Rimadyl Information

Rimadyl (Carprofen) is used to treat inflammation in dogs. Inflammation can be all over an area and appear as a thickening of the skin or as a rash or hives. The signs of inflammation in dogs vary depending on the organ or tissue involved. Inflammation of the back may make it difficult for a dog to stand up. Inflammation of the muscles and joints may be less visible until your dog starts to move. Your dog will limp if the inflammation is in its leg. Inflammation may cause lethargy, appetite loss, and loss of interest in play in dogs. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce inflammation. Please do not give your dog NSAIDs meant for humans, as they can cause serious illness in your pet. NSAIDs may also cause negative side effects in your dog. Rimadyl relieves inflammation with fewer side effects than steroids. Rimadyl is also used to manage chronic pain in dogs with osteoarthritis and to treat pain after surgery. Pet medications like Carprofen work for dogs by treating inflammation and reducing fever and pain.

Rimadyl Side Effects

The most common side effects of Rimadyl may include increased or decreased activity; increased or decreased drinking; change in urinary frequency; change in color or smell of urine; Call your veterinarian right away if your dog has any of the serious side effects such as:
• Aggression;
• Black, tarry, or bloody stool;
• Change in appetite;
• Diarrhea;
• Itching or scabbing;
• Pale gum color;
• Seizure;
• Vomiting

Rimadyl Precautions

Do not use Rimadyl for your dog if it is allergic to Carprofen or any other ingredients in this medication. Before you give your dog this medication, tell your veterinarian about its medical history, including if it has liver or kidney disease; has bleeding disorders such as Von Willebrand disease; is younger than six weeks old; is pregnant; is lactating; Tell your veterinarian about all the medications your dog is taking including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Rimadyl and other medicines like other NSAIDs or corticosteroids. Tell your veterinarian if your dog is pregnant or breeding. The safety of Rimadyl in pregnant or breeding dogs has not been established. Inform your veterinarian if your dog is lactating. It is unknown if Rimadyl will pass into breastmilk and if it harms pups. Use Rimadyl exactly as prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not stop or change the dose of this medicine without talking to your veterinarian. Stopping Rimadyl or not administering it as prescribed by your vet may cause the inflammation to come back. Rimadyl is suitable for long-term treatment of osteoarthritis in dogs. Wash your hands before and after administering this medicine. Do not ingest it. Due to the palatable taste of Rimadyl, store it in a secure location. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Store Rimadyl tablets between 59 – 860F (15 – 300C).

Do I need a prescription to order Rimadyl?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Rimadyl.