In recent years there has been a tremendous increase in the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for use in dogs for pain relief after surgery or for dogs with joint problems.
Like all medications, these NSAIDs carry a risk of side effects or adverse reactions. Most are mild, but some can be very serious, causing permanent damage or even death, especially if not used according to label instructions.
Stephen F. Sundlof, DVM, Ph.D., director of the Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) at the Food and Drug Administration, stated: “It is important that pet owners are aware of the risks and benefits of all medications , including NSAIDs, so they can make informed decisions about their pet’s health care. Owners who give their dog NSAIDs should be aware of the side effects that indicate their pet needs medical attention.”
The most common side effects are vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, depression, and diarrhea. The most serious side effects include problems such as ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney damage, perforations, and liver problems.
Michele Sharkey, DVM, of the Center for Veterinary Drugs, Office of New Drug Evaluation for Animals says, “The side effects of NSAIDs are well known and well documented, but this information doesn’t always reach the pet owner. If the pet owner can recognize a potential reaction, discontinue the medication, and get veterinary help, it could mean the difference between a good outcome and disaster.”
Steps you can take to protect your dog from adverse drug reactions
Ask Questions – Ask the vet about the risks, benefits, and side effects of all medications. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about possible side effects or signs to look out for when treating your dog.
Tell everyone: Be sure to tell the vet about your dog’s symptoms and any medications he’s used, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, vitamins, and any flea control products. The combination of certain medications could harm your dog.
Read the Customer Information Sheet: You should receive a “Client Information Sheet” with each prescription. These are summaries that explain expected results, what to discuss with your vet before giving your dog the medication, possible side effects to watch out for, along with other important information. If your veterinarian is unable to provide you with the Client Information Sheet, you can print it from the CVM website or by calling the pharmaceutical companies toll-free number.
Get Recommended Testing: Testing is particularly important with long-term use to identify any problems and monitor how well the dog tolerates the drug.
Work with your vet to find the best NSAID – there are many options available, and sometimes the process of finding the best one can mean changing the prescription.
If there is a bad reaction, stop the drug and call the vet: If you suspect an adverse reaction, stop giving the drug and contact your vet immediately.
Side effects to watch for include: A decrease or increase in the dog’s appetite, yellowing of the gums, skin, or whites of the eyes, vomiting, seizures, incoordination, changes in bowel movements (such as diarrhea or spotting black, tarry or bloody stools), behavior changes (such as decreased or increased level of activity or aggression), changes in drinking habits, changes in urination habits (such as frequency, color or odor), changes in skin (scabs, redness or scratching).
Not all possible side effects are listed in the customer information sheet or on the label. Contact your vet immediately if you have any questions about your dog’s medication. Something that starts out as a minor problem can quickly turn into an emergency.
Report All Adverse Reactions: Adverse experiences with NSAIDs should be reported to the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, Division of Surveillance, HFV-210, 7519 Standish Place, Rockville, MD 20855, (888) FDA-VETS (332-8387). .