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Saturday, November 6, 2010

Rimadyl

What is Rimadyl

Rimadyl is the name Pfizer uses for Carprofen. It's like saying Advil instead of Ibuprofen, for humans. If you have a dog that you're told needs to be on Rimadyl, especially for a log time, skip the brand name and opt for a generic, cheaper brand. It's the same thing. Carprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug mainly used to treat dog arthritis symptoms and flare ups along with hip dysplasia in a senior dog as a long term solution. Short term use is mainly prescribed post-op to relieve temporary inflammation.

In the United States, Rimadyl (Carprofen) is available in 25, 75, and 100mg tablets, liver flavored or non. It's easier for the dog owner to use Pfizer's Rimadyl only because of the taste. Most patients will eat it as if it's a dog treat because of the taste. You need to ask your dog vet about dosage which varies according to the dog's weight.

The most effective way to administer Carprofen, in the long term, is in two doses, a morning one and an evening one.




Dangers Associated With Rimadyl

For long-term use, Rimadyl has been associated with liver and kidney problems, and even gastritis and ulcers, that's why if your dog is going to be prescribed this drug, he/she needs frequent evaluations and blood work done at your vet's office. Other side effects, include loss of appetite, vomiting, and wobbling. If your dog is just getting started on Rimadyl (Carprofen) you must keep a watchful eye and contact your vet if you notice: vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, increase in water consumption, seizures, increase in urination, drowsiness, skin changes, and behavior  changes (energy level, aggression)



Other names for  Rinadyl/ cheaper solutions
 
If you own a small dog, and you are a responsible owner, you may want to opt for buying larger pills that you cut down to the proper size. No vet will recommend that, so you have to be careful. As for glucosamine for dogs, fish oil for dogs, and chondroitin, you should know that they are not alternatives. These are supplements. They do help boosts your dog's system, but they are not drugs therefore they only compliment the use of Carprofen, they don't replace it. You can always opt to purchase a senior dog food that has those supplements in its formula.
If you are going to be using the drug long-term, there are other names, including the generic Carprofen, you should look up. They do the same job and cost a lot less. Other names include: Novox, Vetprofen, and Care-O-Pet that are available in caplets or chewable. The savings are significant. Another way to save money is not to buy it from your vet. There are companies (such as 1800petmeds.com) that offer great deals over the Internet. Do your research.





When shopping around, I recommend you look up Carprofen, a term few dog owners know.

M--

13 comments:

JacksDad said...

Yep, I have used Rymadil on a previous dog and it works wonders, but, you are so right about regular trips to the vet for checkups!

Molly the Airedale said...

Neither one of us has ever had to use Rimadyl, knock on wood. Thank you for a great post, Twink!

Love ya lots
Maggie and Mitch

Dexter said...

Yuh, I take the glocosamine every day, but there is nothing like rimadyl for when I am really owie. I do take metacam sometimes. It is also the anti inflamatory and seems to not make me sleepy.

Slobbers,
Mango

♥♥ The OP Pack ♥♥ said...

We have had Rimadyl prescribed a few times here, but only for very short periods of time. Great info, Twink. Hope you are all having a good weekend.

Woos ~ Phantom, Thunder, and Ciara

the booker man said...

miss twinkie,
thankies for the rimadyl informational! mama tries to store all these factoids in her grey cells, but sometimes she forgets stuff. now me 'n asa know all the factoids, too, so we can help her with her recalls if she evarrr needs to give rimadyl to me or asa!

*woof*
the booker man

Jed and Abby in MerryLand said...

Thanks for the excellent overview! Mama has had elderly Danes on long-term Rimadyl, and it's very important to get that blood work done! Can't emphasize that enough.

Jed & Abby

Sagira said...

Thanks for all the tips. My older brothers and sister haven't needed this yet.

Lorenza said...

I had to take Rymadil a couple of times but not for a long time... thankfully!
Your info is pawesome! thanks for telling us!
Happy sunday to all of you!
Kisses and hugs
Lorenza

bichonpawz said...

Our Big Brother had to be on Rimadyl for awhile and we did opt for the generic variety. Thank you for the great tip! xoxo Chloe and LadyBug

Kate said...

Another informative post from Ms Van Twinkerson!

Linda K said...

Like all medications they produce side affects that are not experienced by everyone that takes them. Ozzie took Rymadil for his bum shoulder (bulldogs are orthopedically challenged!)and after 24 hours began vomiting along with diarrhea! He had to be hospitalized because he became dehydrated. Though Rymadil may be fine for others just be aware if your doggie has these symptoms discontinue the med and call your vet! We now use a fish oil tablet regime to keep things in check.

rox wisely said...

Been doing research on Rimadyl. One thing to always remember is to not miss a dosage of Rimadyl as much as possible. But in case it happens, follow up the missed dose as soon as possible. But do not give double dosage.

Cookptwb said...

We have had Rimadyl prescribed a few times here, but only for very short periods of time. Great info, Twink. Hope you are all having a good weekend. Woos ~ Phantom, Thunder, and Ciara

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