Dog arthritis results in joint inflammation that reduces mobility and causes pain. There are plenty of dog arthritis pain relief medications available, but they do nothing to reduce joint inflammation. If you really want to help your dog feel better, consider using anti-inflammatory dog arthritis medication to reduce joint swelling on a long term basis.

The current trend among vets is to prescribe non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs known as NSAIDs. These drugs have fewer side effects in dogs than the usual steroid anti-inflammatory drugs which makes them less risky when it comes to reducing inflamed joints resulting from dog arthritis.

NSAIDs are FDA regulated in the United States. These are the ones most commonly prescribed:

• Carprofen (Rimadyl)

• Meloxicam (Metacam)

• Tepoxalin (Zubrin)

• Deracoxib (Deramaxx)

• Firocoxib (Previcox)

• Etodalac (EtoGesic)

Here’s How NSAIDs Work

NSAIDs block the enzyme cyclo-oxygenase (COX) which causes joint inflammation, but which also has beneficial uses for the stomach and kidneys. The challenge for drug companies was to find a way to block the harmful effects of OCX without reducing the beneficial effects of COX to the other parts of the body. The results of that challenge was a family of drugs that block COX 2, which causes joint swelling in dog arthritis patients, and does not impact the beneficial COX. There are, however, side effects for these medications which include vomiting, nausea, kidney problems, and other effects.

NSAIDs Work Well Over a Long Term

When joint inflammation is reduced, there is also a reduction of the pain your dog experiences as the result of dog arthritis. The reduced inflammation improves the dog’s mobility as well as their ability to bear more weight on their legs.

Using NSAIDs for periods of time greater than 21 days can produce these results:

• A reduced number of joint cells that die from oxidation.

• A reduction in the pain signals transmitted by the spinal cord to the brain.

NSAIDS can improve your dog’s mobility and lessen pain. And if your dog is going to experience side effect, they typically show up in the first 30 day.

Your Next Move

Weight control and exercise are an important part of controlling the symptoms of dog arthritis. If you already are doing both for your dog, and he is still suffering, ask you vet if NSAIDs might be right for him.