Written by Dr. Feargus McConnell, BVSc on the Jan.16, 2024
Petdirect is dedicated to providing educational pet health content for pet parents. This article was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer common questions about your pet’s medication. Our focus is on delivering unbiased information to help you understand how medication works, its potential side effects, and FAQs for your reference. Always administer medication directly as prescribed by your vet. This article shouldn’t take the place of advice from your vet.
Canidryl is the brand name medication containing Carprofen as the active ingredient. This medication is commonly used in dogs to manage inflammation and pain caused by disorders affecting the musco-skeletal system and degenerative joint diseases like arthritis. This medication can also be used to manage post-operative pain.
The main ingredient Carprofen, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It functions by reducing inflammation, pain, and fever in dogs. It achieves this by blocking certain pathways (COX pathways) responsible for triggering inflammation. Carprofen tends to block more of the inflammatory pathways while having fewer negative effects on other body systems, making it a good option for dogs.
Canidryl is typically dosed based on your dog's weight and pain level. This is a flavoured tablet that should be given with food to reduce stomach upsets. Always adhere to your vet's guidance on dosage and treatment duration. Its flexible dosing allows personalised adjustment for your dog's needs as recommended by your veterinarian.
Overdose:
In case of a suspected overdose, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary assistance or the New Zealand National Poisons Centre at www.poisons.co.nz/animal-helpline/ or 0800 869 738.
Do not administer other NSAIDs at the same time or within 24 hours of each other. Carprofen should not be given with corticosteroids as it can increase the risk of dangerous side effects like intestinal bleeding and ulceration. Do not use it where there is a possibility of stomach ulceration or intestinal bleeding. Do not use it in dogs suffering from heart, liver or kidney disease. Avoid use in any dehydrated animal.
While Canidryl is generally well-tolerated, some dogs may experience side effects such as:
If you witness these side effects in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Store Canidryl at room temperature, and ensure it is kept out of reach of pets and children. Canidryl tablets are palatable so store them securely away from pets to avoid accidental ingestion and overdose.
Veterinarians often recommend routine testing, such as blood work, for pets taking carprofen based medication. This helps monitor the pet's response to the medication and ensures their continued well-being.
How long does it take for Canidryl to start working in dogs?
Can Canidryl be used at the same time as other medications?
Can Canidryl be used in cats?
Canidryl (Carprofen) can be an effective medication for managing pain and inflammation in dogs. We hope this article provides a clear understanding of Canidryl for your pet. Remember, always seek advice from your veterinarian for any health-related decisions for your pets.