Frequently Asked Questions about Rimadyl
What is Rimadyl and how does it work?
Rimadyl a is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for dogs. This drug inhibits the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that trigger inflammation. By inhibiting these chemicals, specifically COX-2, Rimadyl is able to treat pain and inflammation caused by arthritis, dental procedures, surgical procedures, hip dysplasia, and more.
There is no cure for arthritis, but Rimadyl has been shown to be effective in controlling arthritis pain and inflammation to help your pet maintain mobility and their quality of life.
Why would my dog need Rimadyl?
Your dog may need Rimadyl if they're suffering from arthritis, hip dysplasia, or other joint diseases. This pet medication allows for day-to-day pain management. Rimadyl is also prescribed for short-term postoperative pain relief following surgical or dental procedures.
What else should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Rimadyl?
If your vet prescribes Rimadyl for your dog, talk to them first about what types of tests and exams may be required while your pet is on the medication. Also, be sure to discuss how long treatment will last and what kind of outcome your veterinarian expects. You may want to discuss what lifestyle changes you can make to help ease your dog's joint pain along with the use of Rimadyl.
What dosage does my dog need?
It all depends on your veterinarian's instructions and your dog's weight. The recommended dosage for dogs is 2 mg of Rimadyl per 1 lb of bodyweight (4.4 mg/kg) once a day. For example, if your pet weighs 75 lbs, the typical dose would be 150 mg of Rimadyl (two 75 mg chewable tablets or caplets). Doses may also be divided in half and administered twice daily instead of all at once.
What are the side effects?
Like other NSAIDs, dogs taking Rimadyl may experience side effects. The most common is upset stomach. However, more serious side effects like stomach ulcers may develop. If you notice vomiting, diarrhea, dark, tarry, or bloody stools, or constiptation, seek emergency veterinary care. Side effects involving the kidneys or liver may also occur. Other signs of potential side effects include: changes in the color or smell of your pet's urine, increased thirst, jaundice, pale gums, shedding, lethargy, shedding, behavioral changes, or seizures. Again, if you observe any of these, cease administering Rimadyl and contact your veterinarian immediately.
What should I do if a side effect occurs?
Stop administering Rimadyl pet medications and seek immediate veterinary care.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it to your dog as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your pet's next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to their regular schedule. Do not double up and give two doses at once.
Do I need a prescription for Rimadyl?
Yes. Rimadyl is a prescription pain reliever for dogs.
What forms does this medication come in?
Rimadyl is available in two forms: scored non-chewable caplets and scored liver-flavored chewable tablets.
Is there a difference between the chewable tablets and the caplets?
Both the chewable tablets and the caplets come in the same strengths. The chewable tablets are liver flavored for easier administration. Both of them are scored to make giving your dog the proper dose easier.
Is there a generic form available?
Carprofen is the name of the drug. Three generic alternatives for dogs are available: Novox Caplets, Vetprofen Caplets, and Carprofen Caplets. Rimadyl is the only brand of carprofen pain medication for dogs that is available as liver-flavored chewable tablets.
Are the generics safer than Rimadyl?
Chemically, generics like Novox, Vetprofen, and Carprofen are exactly the same as Rimadyl. They have the same potential side effects.
Why can't I just give my dog ibuprofen for pain?
While ibuprofen and Rimadyl are similar medications, ibuprofen is not safe for dogs. Rimadyl (carprofen) is FDA-approved for relieving pain in dogs.
What results can I expect if my dog is given Rimadyl?
Rimadyl will not cure arthritis in dogs, hip dysplasia, or any other degenerative joint disease. However, it can reduce pain and inflammation. Results may very on a case by case basis, but many dogs see pain relieving effects within hours after taking Rimadyl. Anti-inflammatory benefits usually take several days. Remember, because there is no cure for arthritis, symptoms may return if Rimadyl is discontinued. Some dogs may also receive additional benefits by taking a joint supplement like Dasuquin or Glyco-Flex in addition to NSAIDs like Rimadyl.
Are there any drugs that will interact poorly with Rimadyl?
Talk to your veterinarian before administering Rimadyl if your pet is taking other vitamins, supplements, or medications like aspirin, other NSAIDs like etodolac, over-the-counter cough, cold, or allergy medications, steroids like prednisone, diuretics like furosemide, anticoagulants, enalapril, Proin or other urinary incontinence medications, sulfa drugs, or certain oral antidiabetic medications.
Can I use this product off and on depending on my dog's level of pain?
Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate dosing levels for your dog.
Can Rimadyl be used with other pain medications?
Your veterinarian may consider giving Rimadyl with Tramadol if your pet is experiencing severe pain. However, be sure to follow your veterinarian's instructions, and do not give your pet new medications without first consulting them.
What other NSAIDs are there if I don't want to give my dog Rimadyl?
Other brands of NSAIDs for dogs include: Deramaxx (deracoxib), Previcox (firocoxib), Metacam (meloxicam), and EtoGesic (etodolac). Your veterinarian will determine which choice best fits your dog's needs.
Can I give my dog Rimadyl and a joint supplement?
Yes. Products like Dasuquin, Glyco-Flex, Cosequin, etc. are joint supplements and are made without drugs. They are formulated to help protect and restore cartilage, while Rimadyl is for treating pain and inflammation.
What's the difference between Rimadyl and ibuprofen?
Rimadyl (carprofen) is similar to ibuprofen, but products like Advil or Motrin are for human use. They can be dangerous if given to dogs. Rimadyl pain killers may cause side effects, but they are specifically designed and approved for use in dogs.
Will my dog possibly need blood tests while they're on Rimadyl? Why?
Rimadyl is metabolized by the liver and excreted in your pet's kidneys. As such, your veterinarian will want to do blood tests that measure liver and kidney function to make sure they are working properly.
My dog vomits after I give them Rimadyl. What should I do?
If vomiting occurs when you give your pet Rimadyl, stop administering the medication and contact your veterinarian right away.
Can cats take Rimadyl too?
No. Rimadyl cannot be used in cats. There are other NSAIDs available for feline use like Onsior (robenacoxib).
My vet recommended my dog take Denamarin in addition to Rimadyl. Why?
Denamarin is a supplement that contains S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) and silybin that may support your dog's liver function. Because Rimadyl is metabolized by the liver, your veterinarian is probably just trying to make sure your dog gets a little extra support to maintain their liver health. However, consult your veterinarian before starting any new medication or supplement alongside Rimadyl.
What is the cost per caplet or chewable tablet?
Prices are subject to change.
Product |
Cost Per Pill |
100mg 180 Caplets |
$1.47 |
100mg 180 Chewable Tablets |
$1.40 |
100mg 60 Caplets |
$1.58 |
100mg 60 Chewable Tablets |
$1.57 |
75mg 180 Caplets |
$1.13 |
75mg 180 Chewable Tablets |
$1.15 |
75mg 60 Caplets |
$1.34 |
75mg 60 Chewable Tablets |
$1.25 |
25mg 180 Caplets |
$.93 |
25mg 180 Chewable Tablets |
$.94 |
25mg 60 Caplets |
$1.12 |
25mg 60 Chewable Tablets |
$1.05 |