NSAIDs - Types
(Continued article ... page 2 of 4)
| Definition / Overview | Types of NSAIDs | Side Effects / Dangers |
| Safety Concerns |
Types of NSAIDs for Pets
NSAIDs are classified as "fast-acting drugs". In contrast to slow-acting drugs, as the name suggests, fast-acting drugs act by suppressing inflammation quickly, rather than over the course of weeks or months. None of these drugs can safely be combined. Here we give an overview of a few of the most commonly used NSAIDs. As with all drugs, numerous iterations of this drug class exist, all with slightly different results and side effects.
Aspirin
Aspirin is an NSAID that relieves pain due to inflammation, though in some animals it is ineffective. The main advantages are affordability and ready availability. As with all NSAIDs, the drawbacks are that it can cause serious side effects, including stomach upset or intestinal bleeding. It may also inhibit the production of cartilage, which works against an animal with joint problems. Aspirin also counteracts normal blood clotting and can promote bleeding if injury occurs. Because of the drawbacks of aspirin, it is normally not recommended for pets.
Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen should not be given to pets, as it is linked with ulcers and kidney failure.
Rimadyl (Carprofen), EtoGesic (Etodolac), and Metacam (Meloxicam)
Developed as an improvement upon aspirin, intended to reduce or prevent associated side effects, these medications for dogs are meant to be used indefinitely. Advantages are that the drugs are usually effective and only need to be administered once a day. However, Rimadyl, introduced in 1997 by the drug manufacturer Pfizer™, has been controversial since its initial release. The drug was originally developed for human consumption but was later shifted into the canine market. Upon release to the public, veterinarians were given many incentives to push the drug onto the market. Almost immediately, reports of serious side effects, ranging from blood in the urine to death, were being reported with large numbers of dogs after taking the recommended dosage of Rimadyl. Metacam can be injected or taken as an oral suspension. Principal side effects are gastrointestinal irritation (vomiting, diarrhea, and ulceration) and liver and kidney toxicity. These drugs are by and large not safe for pets.
Deramaxx (Deracoxib)
Deramaxx is the latest generation of NSAID developed with the purpose of treating pain while minimizing side effects. Similar to Rimadyl and EtoGesic, this drug is meant to be used long term, it has proven effective in treating joint disorder pain, and it is administered once a day. While side effects are generally less common and less severe with Deramaxx than with other NSAIDs, they are still serious enough that usage of the drug is not recommended. A further disadvantage is that it is one of the more expensive of these drugs.
Naproxen
A popular and effective over-the-counter medication available to treat pain and inflammation in people, naproxen can easily exceed toxic levels in dogs. The most common cause of naproxen toxicity is a well-meaning owner trying to alleviate pain in his dog and giving the medication without knowing the toxic dose. The initial toxic effect is bleeding stomach ulcers. In addition to ulcers, increasing doses of naproxen eventually lead to kidney failure and, if left untreated, can be fatal.
Some danger signs include: poor appetite, vomiting, dark stools, vomiting blood, abdominal pain, dehydration, weakness, and lethargy. Diagnosis of naproxen toxicity is generally based on physical exam findings and a history of access or exposure to naproxen.
Phenylbutazone
A potent pain reliever, fever reducer, and anti-inflammatory, phenylbutazone is sometimes used to manage chronic pain in dogs.
Piroxicam
Used most often to treat cancer in dogs, piroxicam has anti-tumor and pain-relieving properties. It cannot be combined with other NSAIDs.
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