Carprofen for dogs

Carprofen for dogs : Overview

Description

Carprofen for dogs belongs to the propionic acid class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which also includes ibuprofen, naproxen, and ketoprofen. Carprofen, a substituted carbazole, serves as the active ingredient in CARODYL®.

Indications

Carprofen tablet for dogs effectively relieves pain and reduces inflammation in dogs with osteoarthritis. Veterinarians also use it to manage postoperative pain following soft tissue and orthopedic surgeries.

Carprofen dosage for dogsDosage and Administration

Veterinarians administer CARODYL® subcutaneously at a dosage of 4 mg/kg of body weight daily (1 ml per 12.5 kg). This daily dose can be given as a single administration or divided into two doses of 2 mg/kg each. To manage postoperative pain, veterinarians administer the medication approximately two hours before the procedure.
Note: Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration that meets the dog’s needs.

Warnings

• Keep CARODYL® out of children’s reach.
• This medication is not for human use. Seek immediate medical attention in case of accidental human exposure.
• Use CARODYL® exclusively in dogs.

Veterinarians should thoroughly examine the dog’s medical history and perform a physical evaluation before starting NSAID therapy. Laboratory tests to establish baseline hematological and serum biochemical data before and during treatment are advisable. Dog owners should monitor for signs of potential drug toxicity.

Precautions

CARODYL® frequently causes gastrointestinal side effects. Other reported effects include issues involving the kidneys, blood, nervous system, skin, and liver. Avoid using CARODYL® in dogs with bleeding disorders (e.g., Von Willebrand’s disease), as its safety in these cases remains unestablished.

Due to its palatable nature, keep CARODYL® chewable tablets securely stored and out of reach of dogs. If a dog ingests a dose exceeding the prescribed amount, contact a veterinarian immediately.

When administering CARODYL® Injection, follow hygienic procedures and rotate injection sites for additional doses. Do not administer this medication intravenously or intramuscularly, as safety for these routes has not been established.

Veterinarians should carefully monitor dogs on CARODYL® when combined with other drugs, such as cardiac, anticonvulsant, or behavioral medications. If additional pain relief is required after the total daily dose of CARODYL®, consider alternative analgesics instead of another NSAID. Allow appropriate washout times when switching between NSAIDs or from corticosteroids to NSAIDs.

Adverse Reactions

Studies show that CARODYL® rarely causes significant adverse reactions. Occasionally reported symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, appetite changes, lethargy, behavioral shifts, and constipation. Most dogs recover when veterinarians recognize and address these signs promptly by withdrawing the drug and initiating appropriate care.

Signs of Drug Intolerance

Adverse reactions may include:

• Decreased appetite or vomiting
• Diarrhea or dark/tarry stools
• Increased water consumption and urination
• Pale gums (anemia) or yellowing of gums, skin, or eyes (jaundice)
• Lethargy, incoordination, seizures, or behavioral changes

Owners must schedule regular follow-ups with their veterinarian during NSAID treatment.