Possible Side Effects of NSAIDs and Safety of Long-term Use

If you’re a pet owner, it’s important to educate yourself about nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in case your pet needs them someday.

PET OWNERS’ FAQs

QUESTION 1: What are NSAIDs used for?

Approved veterinary NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are typically prescribed for the following conditions:

• Arthritis
• Knee pain
• Osteoarthritis
• Eye inflammation
• Injured ligaments
• Dislocated kneecap
• Elbow or hip dysplasia
• Abnormal joint cartilage
• Postoperative pain
• Cancer

Benefits Pet Owners Should Know About

NSAIDs:

• Don’t contain cortisone
• Are usually very effective
• Have pain fighting properties
• Have anti-inflammatory properties
• Are associated with fewer side effects than aspirin
• Help many dogs with chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis lead more comfortable lives

Allow greater ease of movement, leading to muscle strengthening; resultantly strain on affected joints decreases

QUESTION 2: What are the possible side effects of NSAIDs?

Possible Side Effects

• Lethargy
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Not eating/eating less
• Dark and/or tarry stools
• Increased water intake
• Increased urination

Possible Associated Problems Causing the Side Effects

• Gastric ulcer
• Gastrointestinal upset
• Anemia (with pale or yellow gums)
• Kidney damage
• Liver damage

Earlier studies suggested that the most serious adverse effects occur at a very low frequency.

QUESTION 3: How safe are NSAIDs for long-term use in pets?

Most owners whose pets need NSAIDs require an answer to , ‘How safe are NSAIDs for long-term use in pets?’

In a paper called “Risk-Benefit Decision Making in the Long-Term Use of NSAIDs for Canine Osteoarthritis”, Dr. B. Duncan Lascelles (professor of surgery and pain management, NC State University College of Veterinary Medicine) dismisses the notion that long-term use of NSAIDs increases the risk of associated problems. He also noted that side effects are more likely to appear in the first two to four weeks after therapy starts (i.e. not necessarily because of long-term treatment).

Leaving NSAIDs for ‘later in a pet’s life’ may therefore be an unwise approach.

Every pet is different. So, if there comes a time your pet may need NSAIDs, you will figure out what’s best for your pet with the advice and support of your veterinarian.