# Grapiprant for Animals: Mechanism, Doses by Species & Brands

> Grapiprant is a PGE2 antagonist that acts at the EP4 receptor and is not a COX-1 or COX-2 inhibitor. Under the Galliprant label dogs get 2 mg/kg by mouth once a day…

- Source page: https://wevet.in/active-ingredients/grapiprant/
- Type: Active ingredient
- Publisher: WeVet
- Updated: 2026-11-02
- Medically reviewed by: Dr. Ravi Baraiya, B.V.Sc. (2026-11-02)
- Audience: veterinarians and veterinary students

Grapiprant is a PGE2 antagonist that acts at the EP4 receptor and is not a COX-1 or COX-2 inhibitor [1]. Under the Galliprant label dogs get 2 mg/kg by mouth once a day for osteoarthritis pain and inflammation [2].

- Class: Piprant — prostaglandin E2 EP4 receptor antagonist (not a COX inhibitor)
- Brands: Galliprant, Grapitail

## Dose by species

| Species | Use | Dose | Route | How often | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dogs | Osteoarthritis pain and inflammation (Label: 0.9 mg/lb (2 mg/kg).) | 2 mg/kg [2] | PO | Once daily | Label |

## Uses

- Dogs: control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis (Galliprant label) [2].

## Mechanism of action

Grapiprant blocks the EP4 receptor, one of the receptors through which prostaglandin E2 causes pain and inflammation [1][2]. Because it does not inhibit the COX enzymes it works differently from classic NSAIDs [1].

## Safety

- Safe use has not been evaluated in dogs younger than 9 months of age or weighing less than 3.6 kg (8 lb) [2].
- Do not give together with any other oral or injectable NSAID or corticosteroid [2].
- Dogs under 3.6 kg (8 lb) cannot be accurately dosed with the tablets [2].


## Frequently asked questions

### Is grapiprant an NSAID?

It is grouped with anti-inflammatories but works differently: it blocks the EP4 prostaglandin receptor and does not inhibit COX-1 or COX-2 [1].

### What is the grapiprant dose for dogs?

2 mg/kg by mouth once a day (Galliprant label) [2].

## References

[1] Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs in Animals — Merck Veterinary Manual — S. H. Edwards (updated Sep 2024) (2024). https://www.merckvetmanual.com/pharmacology/inflammation/nonsteroidal-anti-inflammatory-drugs-in-animals
[2] GALLIPRANT (grapiprant tablets) — label — Drugs.com Vet — US label text, Elanco (2026). https://www.drugs.com/vet/galliprant.html

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Numbers in [brackets] cite the references above. For veterinary professionals. Information supports — never replaces — clinical judgement; always check the current product label and local regulations.
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