What Pain Medication is Safe For Dogs?
NSAIDs, including Acetaminophen and Tramadol, are commonly prescribed for pain in dogs. Gabapentin and amantadine are also popular choices. These drugs work by blocking the N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor to dampen and reset pain signals in the spinal cord. Amantadine is generally given in combination with NSAIDs. Amantadine has side effects including agitation.
NSAIDs
Although FDA-approved NSAIDs for dogs have proven to be effective at controlling pain and inflammation, they should only be used under veterinarian supervision. NSAIDs are known to cause side effects in dogs, including skin allergies, nausea and diarrhea. They can also irritate the stomach lining. If your pet experiences any of these symptoms, see your vet immediately. These medications are common among dogs and are considered safe for most cases.
NSAIDs are a common type of over-the-counter pain medication used to treat a range of conditions. While they’re safe for dogs in general, they can cause digestive and kidney problems in some dogs. If your dog is having a bad reaction, you can stop the medication and ask your veterinarian for a prescription. NSAIDs can also be harmful for dogs with kidney, liver, or digestive problems.
Acetaminophen
There are some precautions that should be taken when giving acetaminophen to your dog. Do not give your dog more than one dose a day, and if you miss a dose, make sure to give it at another time. Overdose of acetaminophen can lead to diarrhea and vomiting. In severe cases, acetaminophen may cause your dog to appear lethargy and show signs of graying of the gums. Always store medications properly, as acetaminophen is toxic to your pet’s liver and kidneys.
Although acetaminophen is generally safe for dogs, it can be toxic for cats. Acetaminophen can reach the bloodstream within 30 minutes of ingestion. If a cat or dog consumes enough acetaminophen, it can contaminate its liver and red blood cells. If your dog accidentally ingests acetaminophen, contact a veterinarian right away to find out if he or she can safely handle it.
Tramadol
Although tramadol is generally well tolerated by dogs, it is not a perfect treatment for all types of pain. While it has been used as a reliable pain reliever for dogs for more than 20 years, there are side effects associated with its use. Tramadol does not reduce inflammation, but it can alter the way the body perceives pain. This is why it is sometimes prescribed with NSAIDs like carprofen to manage chronic pain.
Though tramadol is a safe pain medication for most dogs, it should not be given to dogs taking SSRIs or MAOIs. Dogs with lowered seizure thresholds should also not take tramadol. Finally, dogs that are elderly or severely debilitated should avoid tramadol, as it may decrease their metabolism and reduce the effectiveness of other medications. In addition, the drug passes into the milk in very low concentrations. Additionally, tramadol is embryotoxic and fetotoxic at high dosages.
Gabapentin
While Gabapentin is a safe medication for dogs, there are several side effects to be aware of. Gabapentin is primarily excreted by the kidneys, so dogs with kidney problems may need to start at a lower dosage and work their way up to a higher one. However, some dogs with kidney disease are safe to take the same dose as dogs with healthy kidneys. In these cases, Gabapentin may prove beneficial for pain control.
Gabapentin is relatively inexpensive, and most veterinary clinics have generic formulations on hand. It costs around $30 for a month’s supply of capsules and tablets. It should be stored at room temperature, but be sure to keep it out of the reach of children. Although Gabapentin is considered a safe pain medication for dogs, it is not recommended for dogs with kidney or liver disease.
Aspirin
In some cases, a veterinarian may prescribe aspirin for a dog who is suffering from pain. The right dosage for dogs is extremely important, however. Two regular strength aspirin can cause serious organ damage in a medium-sized dog. A veterinarian should be consulted before giving your dog any kind of pain medication. The correct dosage may be determined by a blood test or urine test, and your vet will advise you accordingly.
Aspirin is an anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which reduces inflammation and fever. It also works as an anti-coagulant (anticoagulant) to prevent blood clotting, making it an ideal pain medication for active dogs. Aspirin is safe for dogs, but it should only be given in limited situations. NSAIDs can cause liver and kidney problems, as they can have side effects.