What is carprofen?

Carprofen (brand names: Rimadyl®, Zinecarp®, Canidryl®, Aventicarp®, Rycarfa®, Rimifin®, Carpox®, Tergive®, Carprodyl®, Carprieve®, Norocarp®, Novox®, quellin®, Rovera®, Vetprofen®, Levafen®) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain and inflammation in a variety of animals.

How is carprofen given?

• Carprofen is given by mouth once or twice daily. 
• Veterinary approved products include chewable tablets and caplets. 
• This medication should be given with food to reduce possible gastrointestinal side effects. 
• If your pet acts sick or vomits, contact your veterinarian.
• Carprofen may also be given in the hospital as an injection.

This medication will take effect quickly, in about 1 to 2 hours, and improvement of your pet’s signs should follow.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it when you remember. However, if it is close to time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed, give it at the next scheduled time, and return to the regular dosing schedule. Never give your pet two doses at once or give extra doses.

Are there any potential side effects?

Like other NSAIDs, carprofen can affect the gastrointestinal tract, with side effects including vomiting, lack of appetite, diarrhea, constipation, and lethargy. 

While rare, more serious side effects include liver, kidney, or gastrointestinal damage characterized by:

• severe vomiting and or diarrhea that may be bloody or dark
• increased drinking and/or urination
• pale gums
• yellow skin or eyes
• severe lethargy
• persistent poor appetite
• incoordination, paralysis
• seizures
• disorientation restlessness, or aggression
• skin changes (scratching, redness, scabbing) or allergic reactions such as facial swelling or hives
• blood abnormalities such as low red blood cell or platelet counts on bloodwork

Serious adverse reactions associated with this drug may occur without warning and could, in rare cases, lead to death. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice anything out of the ordinary and ensure all follow-up lab work and exams are completed as directed by the veterinarian.

Carprofen may also affect lab tests, such as thyroid levels, liver enzymes, blood cell counts, potassium levels, kidney values, and bleeding times.

This moderate-acting medication should stop working in a few days, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease. Most drug-related adverse effects resolve completely when the drug is withdrawn and appropriate veterinary care is initiated.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

Carprofen should not be used in dogs that:

• have bleeding disorders such as Von Willebrand disease
• have low platelet counts
• are allergic to carprofen or other NSAIDs
• are taking other NSAIDs or steroids

Carprofen should be used with caution in dogs that:

• are younger than six weeks of age
• are senior
• are pregnant or nursing
• are dehydrated
• have pre-existing diseases, especially liver, kidney, heart, or gastrointestinal disease

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Avoid using other NSAIDs or corticosteroids while your dog is taking carprofen. Certain medications should be used with caution when given with carprofen, including but not limited to:

• Anticoagulants
• ACE inhibitors like enalapril, benazepril, aspirin or other NSAIDs
• Corticosteroids
• Cyclosporine or other medications toxic to the kidneys
• Insulin
• Diuretics like furosemide or torsemide

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Before your pet starts carprofen, your veterinarian should perform baseline bloodwork and urinalysis. 
• For long-term carprofen use, liver enzymes and kidney values should be checked two to four weeks after starting the medication, and then every three to six months during therapy. 
• Your veterinarian may recommend recheck examinations to ensure the medication is working adequately to manage pain.
•  At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any side effects occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store carprofen?

• These chewable tablets can be very tempting to dogs, so ensure they are stored in a tightly closed container and secured inside a cabinet to prevent accidental ingestion. 
• Store at room temperature between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C). 
• Store compounded forms of this medication according to the label.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If your dog receives too much of this medication, it can have serious effects on the gastrointestinal system, liver, or kidneys. If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.