Pain Meds for Dogs: Safe Options and What to Avoid
Learn about the safest pain medications for dogs, including NSAIDs, opioids, and supplements, and what human pain relievers to never give your pet.
Pain Meds for Dogs: What Can You Give a Dog for Pain?
When your dog is in pain, it can be distressing for both you and your pet. Fortunately, there are many safe and effective pain medications available for dogs. Your veterinarian will work with you to develop a special plan for your dog’s pain relief, depending on the type of pain your dog is experiencing. This may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, and other types of drugs.
NSAIDs for Dogs
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly prescribed to help relieve pain by decreasing inflammation. These medications work by decreasing a dog’s bodily response to inflammation, which reduces pain. However, NSAIDs can disrupt a dog’s bodily functions, such as the protection of the lining of the stomach and intestines, blood flow to the kidneys, and platelet function.
Commonly Prescribed NSAIDs for Dogs
- Grapiprant (Galliprant): This prescription medication comes as a chewable tablet and is prescribed once daily. Galliprant is an easy-to-give daily medication that can be used at the earliest signs of osteoarthritis.
- Carprofen (Novox or Rimadyl): This prescription medication comes in tablet, caplet, or chewable tablet form. This is typically prescribed once or twice daily.
- Deracoxib (Deramaxx): This prescription medication comes as a chewable tablet and is prescribed once daily.
- Firocoxib (Previcox): This prescription medication is available as a flavored chewable tablet that’s prescribed once daily.
- Meloxicam (Metacam): Meloxicam is a prescription medication that comes as a flavored tablet or liquid and is prescribed once daily.
When given as prescribed, NSAIDs are typically safe, effective pain medications for dogs. Always monitor your dog closely for side effects and signs of toxicity. Call your vet immediately if you suspect that there is an overdose situation or if your pet is not tolerating their medication well.
Opioids for Dogs
Opioid medications work at receptors—areas on the cells that the medication will attach to in order to get a pain relief response. These receptors in a dog’s brain provide relief from moderate to severe pain. Opioids can be prescribed after surgery, or used as part of a medication plan to sedate a dog before general anesthesia is given. However, opioids have several regulations and limitations, and they must be prescribed by your dog’s vet.
Commonly Prescribed Opioids for Dogs
- Morphine: Morphine can come as a liquid, extended-release tablet, or extended-release capsule. Typically, it’s used for surgical pain (such as orthopedic procedures) or severe trauma. This medication should be given for short-term use only.
- Buprenorphine: This medication comes as a liquid but is not meant to be swallowed. It’s squirted into the mouth for absorption by vessels under a dog’s tongue. It’s typically used for surgical pain, cancer pain, or trauma. It’s for short-term use only.
- Codeine: Codeine can come as a liquid or tablet. It’s typically used for severe arthritis pain, chronic collapsing trachea cough, or surgical pain. This drug should be prescribed for short-to-medium-term use.
- Butorphanol: This drug can come as a liquid or tablet, is used for surgical pain, and should be given for short-term use.
Other Types of Pain Medications for Dogs
In addition to NSAIDs and opioids, there are other types of drugs that can help manage pain in dogs.
Chondroitin
Chondroitin is a natural substance used to protect a dog’s cartilage. Chondroitin is used for mild pain from conditions like hip dysplasia and spinal cord injuries. It comes in many forms, including tablets, chews, and liquids. This is also available over the counter.
Adequan
Adequan is an injectable product used for pain from osteoarthritis and has anti-inflammatory benefits. You will need a prescription from your vet for this supplement.
Pain Meds for Dogs FAQs
What pain relievers are safe for dogs?
There are many safe and effective pain medications for dogs, including NSAIDs, like Galliprant and carprofen; opioids; and other types of drugs. Certain dog supplements can also help manage pain in dogs. Your vet is in the best position to recommend which pain meds are safest for your individual dog.
Can I give my dog aspirin or Tylenol?
No, it’s not safe to give your dog aspirin or Tylenol—or any human pain meds for that matter—unless your veterinarian specifically tells you to. Aspirin and Tylenol can cause serious side effects in dogs, including internal bleeding. There are safer, vet-approved pain medications made just for dogs that are more effective and less risky.
Table: Commonly Prescribed Pain Medications for Dogs
| Medication | Brand Name | Form | Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grapiprant | Galliprant | Chewable tablet | Once daily |
| Carprofen | Novox, Rimadyl | Tablet, caplet, chewable tablet | Once or twice daily |
| Deracoxib | Deramaxx | Chewable tablet | Once daily |
| Firocoxib | Previcox | Flavored chewable tablet | Once daily |
| Meloxicam | Metacam | Flavored tablet, liquid | Once daily |
References
References
- Pain Meds for Dogs: What Can You Give a Dog for Pain? — PetMD. 2023. https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/pain-meds-for-dogs
- NSAIDs for Dogs: Everything You Need to Know — PetMD. 2023. https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/nsaids-dogs-everything-you-need-know
- Get the Facts about Pain Relievers for Pets — FDA. 2023. https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/animal-health-literacy/get-facts-about-pain-relievers-pets
Similar Articles
Read full bio of Sneha Tete
