Carprofen (Rimadyl) for Dogs
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PetMD’s medications content was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer your most common questions about how medications function, their side effects, and what species they are prescribed for. This content shouldn’t take the place of advice by your vet.
What Is Carprofen Used for in Dogs?
Veterinarians commonly prescribe carprofen to treat osteoarthritis (OA) and other causes of inflammation in dogs. Carprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that provides pain relief, decreases inflammation, and reduces fever.
The FDA-approved medication is commonly available under the brand name Rimadyl.
Your veterinarian may prescribe Rimadyl after surgery to manage surgical pain.
Other brand names of carprofen include Carprieve, Novox, Carpaquin, Quellin, Vetprofen, and Carprovet.
Compounded Carprofen for Dogs
In certain circumstances, your veterinarian may recommend a compounded formulation of carprofen.
Compounded medications are prescribed if there’s a specific reason your pet’s health can’t be managed by an FDA-approved drug, such as if your pet has trouble taking pills in capsule form, the dosage strength is not commercially available, or the pet is allergic to an ingredient in the FDA-approved medication.
Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. They’re created by either a veterinarian or a licensed pharmacist on an individual basis to best suit a patient’s particular needs.
Your veterinarian will determine whether a compounded medication is right for your pet.
How Carprofen Works in Dogs
As an NSAID, carprofen works to reduce your dog’s pain by reducing inflammation.
NSAIDs, in general, block the production of natural chemicals that trigger inflammation by working on the body’s COX pathways. Some COX pathways are also involved in maintaining normal functions in the body such as digestion, kidney health, and clotting.
In dogs, carprofen blocks significantly more of the chemicals that cause inflammation without affecting other bodily functions. Because of this, carprofen decreases inflammation and pain in dogs with fewer side effects than some other types of NSAIDs.
Carprofen for Dogs Directions
Follow the directions on the drug label or as provided by your veterinarian.
Your veterinarian will prescribe a dosage and treatment plan based on your dog’s weight and the cause of their pain.
Most dogs willingly take Rimadyl chewable tablets like a treat. If not, you can hide the tablet in a small amount of tasty food.
Although Rimadyl can be given with or without food, giving it with food can help reduce the chance of stomach upset.
Give Rimadyl for as long as your veterinarian recommends. Many dogs, especially those with OA, require long-term treatment.
Talk to your veterinarian if your dog still appears to be in pain or is reluctant to play, climb stairs, or jump. Additional pain medications may be necessary.
Missed a Dose?
Speak with your veterinarian about what to do if you forget to give a dose of carprofen.
Generally, they may instruct you to give it when you remember, or, if it is almost time for your pet’s next dose, to skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosing schedule.
Do not give extra or double doses.
Possible Side Effects of Carprofen for Dogs
Although carprofen is typically well-tolerated by dogs, serious side effects can occur.
Contact your veterinarian if you see any of the following signs:
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Decreased energy level (lethargy)
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Dark, black, or tar-like stools
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Increased urination or accidents inside the house
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Pale gum color (very light pink, white, or grey gums)
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Yellowing of the gums, skin, or whites of the eyes
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Incoordination or weakness
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Any behavioral changes
Serious reactions can occur without warning. However, most dogs recover if the medication is stopped, and any necessary emergency veterinary care is promptly provided.
Human Side Effects
Carprofen is a prescription veterinary medication not intended for use in humans.
Due to possible side effects, humans should never use medicine dispensed for their pets, and pets should not be given any medicine dispensed for a human’s use.
If you accidentally ingest a pet medication, call your physician or the national Poison Control Center hotline at 800-222-1222.
Monitoring Your Pet
Your veterinarian is likely to recommend routine testing while your pet is on this medication.
Testing may vary depending on your pet's individual needs, the length of time your pet will be on this medication, any other medications they may be on, and/or the issue that initially caused your pet to be placed on this medication.
The most common recommendation for monitoring on this medication is blood work, encompassing a complete blood cell count and chemistry panel.
When To Call Your Vet
Call your veterinarian if any of the following apply:
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Side effects are seen (see above)
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Your pet’s condition worsens or does not improve with treatment
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You see or suspect an overdose
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You have additional questions or concerns about the use of carprofen
Carprofen Overdose Concerns in Dogs
By design, dogs are meant to like the taste of Rimadyl chewable tablets, specifically. As such, they can eat too many tablets and easily overdose if given access to the medication.
Severe side effects can occur after a large overdose, and emergency treatment is often necessary.
If you suspect an overdose, immediately contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center. Consultation fees often apply.
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Pet Poison Helpline 855-764-7661
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ASPCA Animal Poison Control 888-426-4435
In the event of an overdose, you can also call the manufacturer of Rimadyl at (888) 963-8471.
How To Store Carprofen for Dogs
Keep the following storage tips in mind:
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Always confirm storage requirements by reading the prescription label.
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Store Rimadyl tablets at 59–86 degrees F (15–30 degrees C).
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Remember that Rimadyl chewable tablets are meant to taste good to pets. Animals can overdose if the medication is not securely stored out of their reach.
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Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Carprofen/Rimadyl for Dogs FAQs
How long does it take for Rimadyl to start working in dogs?
Rimadyl reaches peak blood levels within one to three hours of use. However, it may take a few days before your dog shows signs of improvement.
Depending on the cause of your dog’s inflammation, the signs of pain may return if you stop treatment too soon. For example, osteoarthritis is a chronic, progressive condition that often requires consistent, long-term treatment.
Your veterinarian will instruct you as to how long and often you need to treat your dog based on their medical condition.
Is Rimadyl bad for dogs?
Rimadyl is usually well-tolerated by dogs. However, in rare instances, serious side effects may suddenly occur.
Contact your veterinarian immediately if you see any side effects when giving Rimadyl. Most dogs that experience severe reactions recover if the mediation is discontinued and any necessary emergency veterinary care is promptly provided.
Talk to your veterinarian to determine if Rimadyl is an appropriate choice for your dog.
Is carprofen the same as ibuprofen?
Carprofen and ibuprofen are both non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). However, carprofen (Rimadyl) is used in dogs, and ibuprofen is used in people.
Do not give ibuprofen to dogs.
In dogs, ibuprofen is considered a toxin due to its poor ability to metabolize in the body. Even small doses of ibuprofen can cause serious, potentially life-threatening side effects. Ibuprofen toxicity is one of the most common causes of poisoning in dogs.
Your veterinarian can prescribe an appropriate pain medication for your pet.
Will carprofen make a dog sleepy?
No, carprofen does not make a dog sleepy. Unlike some other classes of pain relievers, carprofen does not cause certain side effects such as grogginess or sedation.
However, because carprofen can help greatly diminish your dog’s pain and discomfort, you may notice them resting and sleeping more comfortably.
No vet writer or qualified reviewer has received any compensation from the manufacturer of the medication as part of creating this article. All content contained in this article is sourced from public sources or the manufacturer.
