Carprofen (Rimadyl)
 Common Drug Name Carprofen

Common Brand Names Rimadyl, Novox, Putney, Vetoquinol. Generic products are available.  

Storage: Store at room temperature in a tight, light resistant, childproof container; do not expose to high heat. The chewable form of the drug is appealing to pets and children.  Store in a secure area to prevent an accidental overdose. Refrigeration is recommended for compounded forms.

Uses: Carprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) in a class called COX-2 inhibitors. Dogs: Carprofen is used for the relief of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, including hip dysplasia. It is also approved for the control of postoperative pain associated with soft tissue and orthopedic surgeries. Carprofen may also help reduce fevers. Carprofen may also be used in other small animals and birds for the relief of inflammation and pain.

Dose and Administration: Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian. Carprofen is given by mouth. It may be given with food to reduce the chance of stomach/intestinal side effects. For long-term treatment, use the lowest dose needed to provide relief. For arthritic conditions, it may need to be given periodically for the animal’s lifetime. If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give 2 doses at once. This medication should only be given to the pet for whom it was prescribed.

Possible Side Effects: The most common side effect of NSAIDs is stomach upset, but stomach ulcers may develop, in which case you may see loss of appetite; vomiting; diarrhea; dark, tarry or, bloody stools; or constipation. Side effects involving the kidney include increased thirst and urination, or changes in the urine color or smell. Liver-related side effects include jaundice (yellowing of the gums, skin, or eyes). Other side effects may include pale gums, lethargy, shedding, incoordination, seizures, or behavioral changes. If any of these side effects are observed, stop treatment and contact your veterinarian. If your pet experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Precautions: Not for use in animals who are hypersensitive (allergic) to carprofen, aspirin, etodolac (EtoGesic), deracoxib (Deramaxx), firocoxib (Previcox), meloxicam (Metacam), tepoxalin (Zubrin), or other NSAIDs. The safety of the drug has not been determined in breeding, pregnant, or lactating animals (female animals nursing their young). Use with extreme caution and continued monitoring in geriatric animals and those who are dehydrated or have pre-existing stomach, intestinal, liver, heart, kidney, diabetes mellitus or blood disorders. Do not use in animals with bleeding problems, e.g., von Willebrand's disease. Consult with your veterinarian regarding the physical examinations and laboratory testing necessary prior to and during treatment with carprofen.

Drug, Food, and Test Interactions: Consult your veterinarian before using carprofen with any other medications, including vitamins and supplements, other NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin, etodolac (EtoGesic), deracoxib (Deramaxx), firocoxib (Previcox), tepoxalin (Zubrin), and meloxicam (Metacam); steroids (e.g., prednisone, dexamethasone, Medrol, triamcinolone), methotrexate, furosemide (Lasix) , digoxin, phenobarbital, oral anticoagulants (heparin, warfarin), enalapril, phenylpropanolamine, sulfa drugs, and some oral antidiabetic drugs, since interactions may occur.

Signs of Toxicity/Overdose: May see loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, dark or tarry stools, bloody stools, increased thirst, increased urination, pale gums, jaundice (yellowing of gums, skin, or eyes), lethargy, increased respiration (fast or heavy breathing), incoordination, seizures, or behavioral changes. An overdose or toxicity could be fatal. If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, or if you observe any of these signs in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children and pets.

** This information may not cover all possible uses, directions, side effects, precautions, allergic reactions, drug interactions, or withdrawal times.  Always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the treatment of your pet.

If you have questions about this medication, please call our Pharmacy at (877) 815-6337 for a consultation