Health Magazine

Dog Arthritis Medicines Side Effects

Posted on the 23 March 2011 by Allagrobusman @allegrobusman
Google+

One of the most common conditions treated by veterinarians is dog arthritis. Overweight and inactive dogs are the perfect candidates for this health concern. Arthritis is a degenerative disease which causes stiffness in the joints and muscles.

Dog Arthritis

Dog arthritis is usually very common in older dogs because their joints sustain wear and tear with continued use for a longer period of time. The pain associated with this condition can be very harmful and irritating for some dogs. Dogs are vulnerable to this disease because of their nature.

So it is very important for all dog owners to know the necessary details about dog arthritis, so they can protect their dogs against this kind of disease.

Dog NSAID’s are becoming more and more popular among dog owners for the treatment of dog arthritis and they are known to be the best dog arthritis medicines. NSAID or Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs reduce dog arthritis stiffness, pain and inflammation and help to improve the overall quality of life for dogs suffering from this common joint condition.

Dog Arthritis Pain

Dog arthritis pain produces prostaglandins, the hormone that results with inflammation. Prostaglandins are also involved in the process of muscle contraction of dogs. NSAID’s reduce the prostaglandins which were produced, thus reducing pain and relieving swelling.

Mild pain relief due to dog arthritis was once treated with low-dose aspirins in the past but the recent development of a new class of anti-inflammatory drugs has changed the whole course of dog arthritis treatment. Firocoxib, Carprofen and meloxicam are effective long-lasting dog arthritis medicines.

Analgesics usually provide relief from strong pain and are quite effective when applied in combination with an NSAID. They include Amantadine, Analgesics provide strong pain relief and are quite effective when combined with an NSAID. They include Tramadol, Amantadine and Gabapentin and Gabapentin.

Corticosteroids provide the dog with extra-strength relief from inflammation. Due to side effects, these meds are not recommended for long-term use. Possible side effects of Corticosteroids include muscle weakness, immune suppression and diabetes mellitus.

Adequan is an injection which is given as a series of injections twice weekly, but not more than eight injections in total. If the dog responds to Adequan, injections will be given as needed.

Adverse reactions are often possible with literally any drug or supplement, so dog arthritis medicines should be applied according to the suggestion of the veterinarian and the dog should be monitored for any symptoms or suspicious behavior. As proper meds for dog arthritis is easily available, it should be treated immediately.


Back to Featured Articles on Logo Paperblog

Magazines