Tuesday 2 March 2021

Comparing the effects of Rimadyl vs Metacam

Both Rimadyl and Metacam for dogs are used to provide relief from pain, stiffness and inflammation. Well, there are a few differences in these drugs. Here’s everything you need you know about both these pet meds.

NSAID’s are known to provide relief from acute pain, fever and inflammation. They are used in both humans and animals. Drugs in this category administered to humans include Vioxx, Aleve, Advil, Celebrex etc. However, the same can prove to be harmful for pets.

Rimadyl and Metacam for dogs are commonly prescribed by vets to address similar problems in dogs. In fact, they are even administered to address the pain and inflammation caused due to surgical intervention.

So, here’s more about these drugs and the differences between both.


About NSAID’s in dogs


Both Rimadyl and Metacam have proven to provide an ailing pooch relief from the pain and inflammation associated with Osteoarthritis and orthopedic and dental surgeries. Both work by inhibiting the cyclo-oxygenase 2 enzymes (responsible for causing pain and inflammation) without disrupting the production of Cyclo-oxygenase 1 enzymes, which aid in maintaining optimal health and well being in pets.

Well, it is important to remember that these drugs also suffer from certain side effects.

Gastrointestinal ulceration, bleeding, liver and kidney diseases are the common risks posed by the administration of these NSAID’s. It is advisable to visit the veterinarian on observing signs like vomiting, diarrhea or nauseas. These may be minor effects that can be resolved with symptomatic treatment or the signs of early kidney or liver disease. Timely treatment or change in dose can save the furry pooch from acute suffering.

Vets mostly suggest regular blood work monitoring for pets that are on long term regimen of NSAID’s for the treatment of degenerative joint disease like Osteoarthritis. They also recommend blood work monitoring before prescribing the drug. For; pets with even minor liver or kidney disease may witness worsening of the disease. Moreover, as it is an Rx drug, it must not be given without the advice of a reputed and qualified vet. Although the benefits and side effects of both drugs are similar, they differ in a few ways.

Differences


Here’s the list:

  • Metacam is available as an oral suspension, while Rimadyl is in tablet form.
  • The generic drug in Metacam is Meloxicam, whereas the generic drug in Rimadyl is Carprofen.
  • Metacam was the first NSAID approved for use by the FDA.
  • Rimadyl is administered once or twice daily, while Metacam is administered once a day.

Categorically, both the drugs are equally effective in providing relief from pain, fever and inflammation.

Well, here’s a word of caution.

The popularity of online vet pharmacies have given birth to unscrupulous and fake pharmacies, which sell expired and fake drugs. They pose a threat to the pet’s health. They sell cheap pet meds online that rarely fail to attract pet parents. In a bid to reduce the burden on their pockets, pet parents fall for the frills and put their companion’s life in danger. Well, even the genuine online pharmacies offer attractive discounts; thanks to the cut down in their overhead costs. Pet parents should therefore, assess the pharmacy’s genuineness before clicking the ‘ORDER’ button.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Six signs to catching Cushing's disease early

Cushing's disease is caused by an overabundance of cortisol, a hormone generated by the adrenal glands. Abnormalities in the pituitary g...