Description

Rimadyl (carprofen) is used to treat pain and inflammation from conditions such as arthritis and other joint diseases including hip dysplasia. It is also used to reduce fever. Rimadyl is available as 25mg, 75mg and 100mg scored caplets as well as 25mg, 75mg and 100mg scored chewable tablets. Rimadyl is a 24-hour, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is administered once a day.

• Do not use in cats. Do not use in pregnant or nursing animals.
• Periodic liver and kidney function tests must be done.

Dosage and Administration

    The recommended dosage for oral administration to dogs is 2 mg/lb (4.4 mg/kg) of body weight daily. Total daily dose may be administered as 2 mg/lb of body weight once daily or divided and administered as 1 mg/lb (2.2 mg/kg) twice daily.

• For control of postoperative pain, administer approximately 2 hours before the procedure.
• Caplets are scored, and dosage should be calculated in half-caplet increments.

Information for Dog Owners

                Rimadyl, like other drugs of its class, is not free from adverse reactions. Owners should be advised of the potential for adverse reactions and be informed of the clinical signs associated with drug intolerance. Adverse reactions may include decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, dark or tarry stools, increased water consumption, increased urination, pale gums due to anemia, yellowing of gums, skin or white of the eye due to jaundice, lethargy, incoordination, seizure, or behavioral changes.

                Serious adverse reactions associated with this drug class can occur without warning and in rare situations result in death (see Adverse Reactions). Owners should be advised to discontinue Rimadyl therapy and contact their veterinarian immediately if signs of intolerance are observed. The vast majority of patients with drug related adverse reactions have recovered when the signs are recognized, the drug is withdrawn, and veterinary care, if appropriate, is initiated. Owners should be advised of the importance of periodic follow up for all dogs during administration of any NSAID.

by Zoetis