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Comparison

Carprofen vs Meloxicam in Dogs: Dosing, Safety & Key Differences

Updated 12 sources

Carprofen and meloxicam are NSAIDs used in dogs, and both have cited label support for osteoarthritis-associated pain and inflammation.[1][2][8][10] The cited carprofen tablet labels also include postoperative pain data and pre-procedure dosing directions in dogs, while the cited meloxicam dog label here describes an initial injectable dose followed by oral suspension after 24 hours.[1][12] For both drugs, gastrointestinal adverse effects are the most commonly reported problems in dogs, and both labels advise using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual response.[1][2][11][12]

At a glance

Both drugs are NSAIDs used in dogs, and both have cited label support for osteoarthritis-associated pain and inflammation.[1][2][8][10]

FeatureCarprofenMeloxicam
ClassNSAID.[1]NSAID of the oxicam class.[2]
Approved dog use in the cited labelsRimadyl caplets are indicated for the relief of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs.[8]METACAM Injection is indicated in dogs for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, and Loxicom Oral Suspension is indicated for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs.[2][10]
Postoperative pain in dogsSeparate placebo-controlled, masked, multicenter field studies confirmed the effectiveness of carprofen tablets for the control of postoperative pain in dogs when dosed at 2 mg/lb once daily.[1]—
Dog dosing in the cited labelsThe recommended oral dosage for Flexprofen Tablets is 2 mg/lb (4.4 mg/kg) of body weight daily, given once daily or divided twice daily.[1]Meloxicam Injection should be administered initially as a single dose at 0.09 mg/lb (0.2 mg/kg) body weight IV or SQ, followed, after 24 hours, by meloxicam oral suspension at 0.045 mg/lb (0.1 mg/kg) body weight daily.[12]
Most common adverse effects in dogsThe most frequently reported effects with carprofen are gastrointestinal signs.[1]GI abnormalities, including vomiting, soft stools, diarrhea, and inappetance, were the most common adverse reactions associated with meloxicam in dogs.[2][11]
Interaction caution in the cited labelsConcomitant use of carprofen with other anti-inflammatory drugs, such as other NSAIDs or corticosteroids, should be avoided.[1]—

Drug class & how they work

Both drugs are NSAIDs used in dogs.[1][2]

  • Carprofen: Carprofen is an NSAID.[1]
  • Meloxicam: Meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) of the oxicam class.[2]

Approved uses & indications

In the cited dog labels, both drugs are used for osteoarthritis-associated pain and inflammation, and carprofen also has postoperative pain data in dogs.[8][2][10][1]

  • Carprofen: Rimadyl is indicated for the relief of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs.[8]
  • Carprofen: Separate placebo-controlled, masked, multicenter field studies confirmed the effectiveness of carprofen tablets for the control of postoperative pain in various breeds of dogs.[1]
  • Meloxicam injection: METACAM Injection is indicated in dogs for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.[2]
  • Meloxicam oral suspension: Loxicom Oral Suspension is indicated for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs.[10]

Dosing

The cited dog labels use oral once-daily or divided-twice-daily dosing for carprofen, and an initial injectable dose followed by oral suspension for meloxicam.[1][12]

DrugSpeciesDoseRouteFrequency
Flexprofen Tablets (carprofen)Dogs2 mg/lb (4.4 mg/kg) of body weightOralOnce daily.[1]
Flexprofen Tablets (carprofen)Dogs1 mg/lb (2.2 mg/kg) of body weightOralTwice daily.[1]
Meloxicam InjectionDogs0.09 mg/lb (0.2 mg/kg) body weightIV or SQSingle dose initially.[12]
meloxicam oral suspensionDogs0.045 mg/lb (0.1 mg/kg) body weightOralDaily, after 24 hours.[12]
  • Carprofen and surgery: For the control of postoperative pain, administer carprofen approximately 2 hours before the procedure.[1]
  • Dose principle: The carprofen and meloxicam labels advise using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual response.[1][12]

Safety & adverse effects

Gastrointestinal adverse effects are the most commonly reported problems for both drugs in dogs.[1][2][11]

  • Carprofen: The most frequently reported effects have been gastrointestinal signs.[1]
  • Carprofen: Events involving suspected renal, hematologic, neurologic, dermatologic, and hepatic effects have also been reported.[1]
  • Carprofen: Laboratory studies in unanesthetized dogs and clinical field studies demonstrated that carprofen tablets are well tolerated in dogs after oral administration.[1]
  • Carprofen: In clinical field studies with 549 dogs at the recommended oral doses for 14 days, the drug was clinically well tolerated and the incidence of clinical adverse reactions for carprofen-tablets treated animals was no higher than placebo-treated animals.[7]
  • Carprofen: For animals receiving 1 mg/lb twice daily, the mean post-treatment serum ALT values were 11 IU greater and 9 IU less than pre-treatment values for dogs receiving carprofen tablets and placebo, respectively, and differences were not statistically significant.[7]
  • Carprofen: Carprofen tablets treatment was not associated with renal toxicity or gastrointestinal ulceration in well-controlled safety studies of up to ten times the dose in healthy dogs.[1]
  • Meloxicam: GI abnormalities, including vomiting, soft stools, diarrhea, and inappetance, were the most common adverse reactions in field studies of dogs receiving meloxicam.[2][11]
  • Meloxicam: Dog owners should be informed that adverse reactions may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, decreased appetite, and behavioral changes after meloxicam administration.[2][12]
  • Meloxicam: In foreign suspected adverse drug reaction reporting, adverse reactions related to meloxicam administration included auto-immune hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, polyarthritis, nursing puppy lethargy, and pyoderma.[2][11]
  • Meloxicam: In six week and six month target animal safety studies, meloxicam was administered orally at 1, 3, and 5X the recommended dose with no significant clinical adverse reactions, and animals in all dose groups exhibited some gastrointestinal distress (diarrhea and vomiting).[10][11]
  • Meloxicam: In the six month target animal safety study, treatment related changes included decreased red blood cell counts, decreased hematocrit, dose related neutrophilia, evidence of regenerative anemia, increased BUN, and decreased albumin.[11]
  • Meloxicam: No macroscopic or microscopic renal changes were observed in any dogs receiving meloxicam in the six month study.[11]

Contraindications & cautions

Both labels advise using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual response in dogs.[1][12]

  • Carprofen: Patients at greatest risk for renal toxicity are those that are dehydrated, on concomitant diuretic therapy, or those with renal, cardiovascular, and/or hepatic dysfunction.[1]
  • Carprofen: Sensitivity to drug-associated adverse reactions varies with the individual patient.[1]
  • Carprofen: Dogs that have experienced adverse reactions from one NSAID may experience adverse reactions from another NSAID.[1]
  • Meloxicam: Serious adverse reactions associated with this drug class can occur without warning and in rare situations result in death.[10]
  • Meloxicam: Owners should be advised to discontinue Loxicom and contact their veterinarian immediately if signs of intolerance are observed.[10]
  • Meloxicam: Owners should be advised of the importance of periodic follow up for all dogs during administration of any NSAID.[10]

Interactions

Carprofen should not be given concurrently with other anti-inflammatory drugs in dogs, and potentially nephrotoxic drugs require caution and monitoring.[1]

  • Carprofen: Concurrent administration of potentially nephrotoxic drugs should be approached cautiously, with appropriate monitoring.[1]
  • Carprofen: Concomitant use of Flexprofen Tablets with other anti-inflammatory drugs, such as other NSAIDs or corticosteroids, should be avoided because of the potential increase of adverse reactions, including gastrointestinal ulcerations and/or perforations.[1]

Studies comparing Carprofen and Meloxicam

A direct dog study comparing carprofen and meloxicam is listed in an FDA FOI summary.[5]

  • Dogs after ovariohysterectomy: Comparison of carprofen and meloxicam for 72 hours following ovariohysterectomy in dogs.[5]

Key points

Both drugs are NSAIDs in dogs, and both labels advise using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual response.[1][2][12]

  • Shared osteoarthritis use: Both drugs have cited label use for osteoarthritis-associated pain and inflammation in dogs.[8][2][10]
  • Carprofen dosing: Flexprofen and Rimadyl carprofen labels describe oral dosing at 2 mg/lb (4.4 mg/kg) daily, given once daily or divided twice daily.[1][8]
  • Meloxicam dosing: The cited meloxicam dog regimen is an initial 0.09 mg/lb (0.2 mg/kg) IV or SQ dose followed, after 24 hours, by oral suspension at 0.045 mg/lb (0.1 mg/kg) daily.[12]
  • Postoperative pain: The cited carprofen tablet labels include postoperative pain field-study data and pre-procedure dosing instructions in dogs.[1]
  • Adverse effects: Gastrointestinal effects are the most commonly reported adverse effects for both drugs in dogs.[1][2][11]
  • Carprofen interactions: Carprofen should be avoided with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids, and potentially nephrotoxic drugs should be used cautiously with monitoring.[1]

Frequently asked questions

What is the labeled oral carprofen dose for dogs?

The recommended dosage for oral administration of Flexprofen Tablets to dogs is 2 mg/lb (4.4 mg/kg) of body weight daily.[1] The total daily dose may be administered as 2 mg/lb once daily or divided and administered as 1 mg/lb (2.2 mg/kg) twice daily.[1]

How is meloxicam dosed in dogs according to the cited label?

Meloxicam Injection should be administered initially to dogs as a single dose at 0.09 mg/lb (0.2 mg/kg) body weight IV or SQ.[12] After 24 hours, meloxicam oral suspension is given at the daily dose of 0.045 mg/lb (0.1 mg/kg) body weight.[12]

Is carprofen labeled for postoperative pain in dogs?

Separate placebo-controlled, masked, multicenter field studies confirmed the effectiveness of carprofen tablets for the control of postoperative pain in various breeds of dogs when dosed at 2 mg/lb once daily.[1] For the control of postoperative pain, carprofen should be administered approximately 2 hours before the procedure.[1]

What adverse effects are most common with carprofen and meloxicam in dogs?

With carprofen, the most frequently reported effects have been gastrointestinal signs.[1] With meloxicam, GI abnormalities including vomiting, soft stools, diarrhea, and inappetance were the most common adverse reactions in dog field studies.[2][11]

Can carprofen be given with corticosteroids or another NSAID?

Concomitant use of Flexprofen Tablets with other anti-inflammatory drugs, such as other NSAIDs or corticosteroids, should be avoided because of the potential increase of adverse reactions, including gastrointestinal ulcerations and/or perforations.[1]

Are carprofen and meloxicam both indicated for osteoarthritis pain in dogs?

Rimadyl caplets are indicated for the relief of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs.[8] METACAM Injection and Loxicom Oral Suspension are indicated in dogs for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.[2][10]

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References

  1. Label: FLEXPROFEN- carprofen tablet - DailyMed - NIHdailymed.nlm.nih.gov
    Passage read from this source
    Carprofen is an NSAID, and as with others in that class, adverse reactions may occur with its use. The most frequently reported effects have been gastrointestinal signs. Events involving suspected renal, hematologic, neurologic, dermatologic, and hepatic effects have also been reported. Patients at greatest risk for renal toxicity are those that are dehydrated, on concomitant diuretic therapy, or those with renal, cardiovascular, and/or hepatic dysfunction. Concurrent administration of potentially nephrotoxic drugs should be approached cautiously, with appropriate monitoring. Concomitant use of Flexprofen Tablets with other anti-inflammatory drugs, such as other NSAIDs or corticosteroids, should be avoided because of the potential increase of adverse reactions, including gastrointestinal ulcerations and/or perforations. Sensitivity to drug-associated adverse reactions varies with the individual patient. Dogs…
    DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION: Always provide Client Information Sheet with prescription. Carefully consider the potential benefits and risk of Flexprofen Tablets and other treatment options before deciding to use Flexprofen Tablets. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual response. The recommended dosage for oral administration to dogs is 2 mg/lb (4.4 mg/kg) of body weight daily. The total daily dose may be administered as 2 mg/lb of body weight once daily or divided and administered as 1 mg/lb (2.2 mg/kg) twice daily. For the control of postoperative pain, administer approximately 2 hours before the procedure. Caplets are scored and dosage should be calculated in half-caplet increments. - SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION
    Separate placebo-controlled, masked, multicenter field studies confirmed the effectiveness of carprofen tablets for the control of postoperative pain when dosed at 2 mg/lb once daily in various breeds of dogs. In these studies, dogs presented for ovariohysterectomy, cruciate repair and aural surgeries were administered carprofen tablets preoperatively and for a maximum of 3 days (soft tissue) or 4 days (orthopedic) postoperatively. In general, dogs administered carprofen tablets showed statistically significant improvement in pain scores compared to controls. - SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION ANIMAL SAFETY: Laboratory studies in unanesthetized dogs and clinical field studies have demonstrated that carprofen tablets are well tolerated in dogs after oral administration.
    Clinical field studies were conducted with 549 dogs of different breeds at the recommended oral doses for 14 days (297 dogs were included in a study evaluating 1 mg/lb twice daily and 252 dogs were included in a separate study evaluating 2 mg/lb once daily). In both studies the drug was clinically well tolerated and the incidence of clinical adverse reactions for carprofen tablets-treated animals was no higher than placebo-treated animals (placebo contained inactive ingredients found in carprofen tablets). For animals receiving 1 mg/lb twice daily, the mean post-treatment serum ALT values were 11 IU greater and 9 IU less than pre-treatment values for dogs receiving carprofen tablets and placebo, respectively. Differences were not statistically significant.
  2. Label: METACAM- meloxicam injection, solution - DailyMeddailymed.nlm.nih.gov
    Passage read from this source
    Warning: Repeated use of meloxicam in cats has been associated with acute renal failure and death. Do not administer additional injectable or oral meloxicam to cats. See Contraindications, Warnings, and Precautions for detailed information. - Description: Meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) of the oxicam class. Each mL of this sterile product for injection contains meloxicam 5.0 mg, alcohol 15%, glycofurol 10%, poloxamer 188 5%, sodium chloride 0.6%, glycine 0.5% and meglumine 0.3%, in water for injection, pH adjusted with sodium hydroxide and hydrochloric acid. - SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION - Indications: Dogs: METACAM Injection is indicated in dogs for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. - Dosage and Administration:
    - Adverse Reactions: Dogs: A field study involving 224 dogs was conducted. Based on the results of this study, GI abnormalities (vomiting, soft stools, diarrhea, and inappetance) were the most common adverse reactions associated with the administration of meloxicam. The following table lists adverse reactions and the numbers of dogs that experienced them during the study. Dogs may have experienced more than one episode of the adverse reaction during the study. In foreign suspected adverse drug reaction (SADR) reporting, adverse reactions related to meloxicam administration included: auto-immune hemolytic anemia (1 dog), thrombocytopenia (1 dog), polyarthritis (1 dog), nursing puppy lethargy (1 dog), and pyoderma (1 dog). Post-Approval Experience (Rev. 2009):
    - Information For Dog Owners: Meloxicam, like other NSAIDs, is not free from adverse reactions. Owners should be advised of the potential for adverse reactions and be informed of the clinical signs associated with NSAID intolerance. Adverse reactions may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, decreased appetite and behavioral changes. Dog owners should be advised when their pet has received a meloxicam injection. Dog owners should contact their veterinarian immediately if possible adverse reactions are observed, and dog owners should be advised to discontinue METACAM therapy. - Clinical Pharmacology:
    Carefully consider the potential benefits and risk of METACAM and other treatment options before deciding to use METACAM. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual response. Cats: Administer a single, one-time subcutaneous dose of METACAM Injection to cats at a dose of 0.14 mg/lb (0.3 mg/kg) body weight. Use of additional meloxicam or other NSAIDs is contraindicated. (See Contraindications). To ensure accuracy of dosing, the use of a 1 mL graduated syringe is recommended. - Contraindications: Cats with known hypersensitivity to meloxicam should not receive METACAM Injection. Additional doses of meloxicam or other NSAIDs in cats are contraindicated, as no safe dosage for repeated NSAID administration has been established (See Animal Safety). Do not use…
  3. Get the Facts about Pain Relievers for Petswww.fda.gov · Sep 29, 2022
    Passage read from this source
    You have to be even more careful with cats. Compared to other species, cats may have a reduced ability to break down NSAIDs.
  4. What Veterinarians Should Advise Clients About Pain ...www.fda.gov · Nov 20, 2024
    Passage read from this source
    In the United States, only two NSAIDs are approved for short-term use in cats to control postoperative pain and inflammation after spays, neuters, and orthopedic surgeries: 1) meloxicam is given as a single subcutaneous (SC) injection before surgery; and 2) robenacoxib is given for a maximum of three days as either an oral tablet or SC injection. No NSAIDs are approved for long-term use in cats. More than one dose (repeated doses) of meloxicam in cats—which is an extra-label use—can cause kidney failure and death, and more than three doses of robenacoxib in cats have not been shown to be safe. Because of the short-term duration of use, it’s not feasible to switch between NSAIDs in cats. Veterinarians should select…
  5. FOI Summary MIF 900-033www.fda.gov · Mar 24, 2022
    Passage read from this source
    2010 Aug;33(4):396-407. 32. Gruet P, Seewald W, King JN. Evaluation of subcutaneous and oral administration of robenacoxib and meloxicam for the treatment of acute pain and inf lammation associated with orthopedic surgery in dogs. Am J Vet Res. 2011 Feb;72(2):184-93. 33. Gruet P, Seewald W, King JN. Robenacoxib versus meloxicam for the management of pain and inflammation associated with soft tissue surgery in dogs: a randomized, non-inferiority clinical trial. BMC Vet Res. 2013 May 2;9:92. 34. Gunew MN, Menrath VH, Marshall RD. Long-te rm safety, efficacy and palatability of oral meloxicam at 0.01-0.03 mg/kg for treatment of osteoarthritic pain in cats. J Feline Med Surg. 2008 Jul;10(3):235 -41.
    Drug Dev Ind Pharm. 2014 Jan;40(1):66-73. 39. Ingrao JC, Johnson R, Tor E, Gu Y, Litman M, Turner PV. Aqueous stability and oral pharmacokinetics of meloxicam and carprofen in male C57BL/6 mice. J Am Assoc Lab Anim Sci. 2013 Sep;52(5):553-9. 40. Iturriaga MP, Paredes R, Arias JI, Torres CG. Meloxicam decreases the migration and invasion of CF41.Mg canine mammary carcinoma cells. Oncol Lett. 2017 Aug;14(2):2198-2206. 41. Jeunesse EC, Bargues IA, Toutain CE, Lacroix MZ, Letellier IM, Giraudel JM, Toutain PL. Paw inf lammation model in dogs f or preclinical pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic investigations of nonsteroidal anti- inflammatory drugs. Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics. 2011 Aug 1;338(2):548-58. 42. Justus C, Quirke JF. Dose-re sponse relationship for the antipyretic effect of meloxicam in…
    Leach MC, Allweiler S, Richardson C, Roughan JV, Narbe R, Flecknell PA. Behavioural effects of ovariohysterectomy and oral administration of meloxicam in laboratory housed rabbits. Res Vet Sci. 2009 Oct;87(2):336- 47. 55. Leece EA, Brearley JC, Harding EF. Comparison of carprofen and meloxicam for 72 hours following ovariohysterectomy in dogs. Vet Anaesth Analg. 2005 Jul;32(4):184- 92. 56. Luna SP, Basílio AC, Steagall PV, Machado LP, Moutinho FQ, Takahira RK, Brandão CV. Evaluation of adverse effects of long-term oral administration of carprofen, etodolac, f lunixin meglumine, ketoprofen, and meloxicam in dogs. Am J Vet Res. 2007 Mar;68(3):258-64. 57. Maddison JE. Cats and NSAIDs-wh at are the issues?. Irish Veterinary Journal. 2007 Mar 1;60(3):174. 58. McCann NC, Lynch TJ, Kim SO, Duffy…
    66. Saito T, Tamura D, Asano R. Usefulness of selective COX-2 i nhibitors as therapeutic agents against canine mammary tumors. Oncol Rep. 2014 Apr;31(4):1637-44. 67. Seymour TL, Adams SC, Felt SA, Jampachaisri K, Yeomans DC, Pacharinsak C. Postoperative Analgesia Due to Sustained-Release Buprenorphine, Sustained-Release Meloxicam, and Carprofen Gel in a Model of Incisional Pain in Rats (Rattus norvegicus). J Am Assoc Lab Anim Sci. 2016;55(3):300-5. 68. Shang Q, Wang X, Apley M, Kukanich SB, Berkland C. PPF microsphere depot sustains NSAID blood levels with inf usion-like kinetics without 'burst'. J Vet Pharmacol Ther. 2012 Jun;35(3):231-8. 69. Speranza C, Schmid V, Giraudel JM, Seewald W, King JN. Robenacoxib versus meloxicam for the control of peri-operative pain and inflammation associated with orthopaedic…
  6. RIMADYL® (carprofen)dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
    Passage read from this source
    Carprofen is an NSAID, and as with others in that class, adverse reactions may occur with its use. The most frequently reported effects have been gastrointestinal signs. Events involving suspected renal, hematologic, neurologic, dermatologic, and hepatic effects have also been reported. Patients at greatest risk for renal toxicity are those that are dehydrated, on concomitant diuretic therapy, or those with renal, cardiovascular, and/or hepatic dysfunction. Concurrent administration of potentially nephrotoxic drugs should be approached cautiously, with appropriate monitoring. Concomitant use of Rimadyl with other anti-inflammatory drugs, such as other NSAIDs or corticosteroids, should be avoided because of the potential increase of adverse reactions, including gastrointestinal ulcerations and/or perforations. Sensitivity to drug-associated adverse reactions varies with the individual patient. Dogs that…
    Always provide Client Information Sheet with prescription. Carefully consider the potential benefits and risk of Rimadyl and other treatment options before deciding to use Rimadyl. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual response. The recommended dosage for oral administration to dogs is 2 mg/lb (4.4 mg/kg) of body weight daily. The total daily dose may be administered as 2 mg/lb of body weight once daily or divided and administered as 1 mg/lb (2.2 mg/kg) twice daily. For the control of postoperative pain, administer approximately 2 hours before the procedure. Caplets are scored and dosage should be calculated in half-caplet increments.
  7. CARPROFEN tablet - DailyMed - NIHdailymed.nlm.nih.gov
    Passage read from this source
    Carprofen is an NSAID, and as with others in that class, adverse reactions may occur with its use. The most frequently reported effects have been gastrointestinal signs. Events involving suspected renal, hematologic, neurologic, dermatologic, and hepatic effects have also been reported. Patients at greatest risk for renal toxicity are those that are dehydrated, on concomitant diuretic therapy, or those with renal, cardiovascular, and/or hepatic dysfunction. Concurrent administration of potentially nephrotoxic drugs should be approached cautiously, with appropriate monitoring. Concomitant use of Carprofen Tablets with other anti-inflammatory drugs, such as other NSAIDs or corticosteroids, should be avoided because of the potential increase of adverse reactions, including gastrointestinal ulcerations and/or perforations. Sensitivity to drug-associated adverse reactions varies with the individual patient. Dogs…
    Always provide Client Information Sheet with prescription. Carefully consider the potential benefits and risk of Carprofen Tablets and other treatment options before deciding to use Carprofen Tablets. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual response. The recommended dosage for oral administration to dogs is 2 mg/lb (4.4 mg/kg) of body weight daily. The total daily dose may be administered as 2 mg/lb of body weight once daily or divided and administered as 1 mg/lb (2.2 mg/kg) twice daily. For the control of postoperative pain, administer approximately 2 hours before the procedure. Caplets are scored and dosage should be calculated in half-caplet increments. - EFFECTIVENESS
    Separate placebo-controlled, masked, multicenter field studies confirmed the effectiveness of carprofen tablets for the control of postoperative pain when dosed at 2 mg/lb once daily in various breeds of dogs. In these studies, dogs presented for ovariohysterectomy, cruciate repair and aural surgeries were administered carprofen tablets preoperatively and for a maximum of 3 days (soft tissue) or 4 days (orthopedic) postoperatively. In general, dogs administered carprofen tablets showed statistically significant improvement in pain scores compared to controls. - ANIMAL SAFETY Laboratory studies in unanesthetized dogs and clinical field studies have demonstrated that carprofen tablets are well tolerated in dogs after oral administration.
    Clinical field studies were conducted with 549 dogs of different breeds at the recommended oral doses for 14 days (297 dogs were included in a study evaluating 1 mg/lb twice daily and 252 dogs were included in a separate study evaluating 2 mg/lb once daily). In both studies the drug was clinically well tolerated and the incidence of clinical adverse reactions for carprofen-tablets treated animals was no higher than placebo-treated animals (placebo contained inactive ingredients found in carprofen tablets). For animals receiving 1 mg/lb twice daily, the mean post-treatment serum ALT values were 11 IU greater and 9 IU less than pre-treatment values for dogs receiving carprofen tablets and placebo, respectively. Differences were not statistically significant.
  8. (carprofen) Caplets for Dogs S/NADA 141-053animaldrugsatfda.fda.gov
    Passage read from this source
    Effect of Supplement: This supplement provides for flexibility in administration of the total daily dose of Rimadyl  caplets. The drug may be administered orally at 2 milligrams per pound of body weight once daily or 1 milligram per pound of body weight twice daily. II. INDICATIONS FOR USE Rimadyl  is indicated for the relief of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs. III. DOSAGE FORM, ROUTES OF ADMINISTRATION AND RECOMMENDED DOSAGE A. Dosage Form: Rimadyl  is available as 25, 75, and 100 mg scored caplets. B. Route of Administration: Oral C. Recommended Dosage: The recommended dosage for oral administration to dogs is 2 mg/lb daily. The total daily dose may be administered as 2 mg/lb of…
    Clinical effectiveness of the recommended dosage of 1 mg/lb body weight twice daily is contained in the original Freedom of Information Summary for NADA 141-053. A study was conducted in dogs to demonstrate the effectiveness of carprofen administered as a single daily dose of 2 mg/lb of body weight for the relief of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs. The study was conducted in veterinary practices in thirteen locations. The safety of carprofen in the field was also assessed. Results of this study demonstrated that carprofen is safe and effective when administered at 2 mg/lb body weight once daily. 3 Rimadyl  Caplets - S/NADA 141-053 A. Dosage Characterization Clinical Study 2167A-12-96-010:
    The percentage of dogs with osteoarthritis that improved after five days of treatment with Rimadyl  was 93% (40/43). Two dogs treated with Rimadyl  experienced mild episodes of vomiting. Increased thirst was reported in one dog treated with Rimadyl  . Three dogs treated with the positive control experienced vomiting. There were no other reports of suspected adverse drug reactions. The results of this study indicate that carprofen administered at a dose of 4 mg/kg (approximately 2 mg/lb) is effective for relief of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs. Dosage Selection Rationale:
    e. Statistical Analysis: Incidence of positive responses obtained from the veterinarian and owner assessments were compared for total carprofen treated cases versus placebo cases using the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel procedure (Fleiss, 1984, Statistical Methods for Rates and Proportions, 2 nd ed.) for combining evidence from multiple investigators or clinics. The analyses were performed using PROC FREQ in SAS 6.12 (Statistical Analysis System). Statistical difference was assessed at the 5% level of significance (P
  9. Label: OSTIFEN- carprofen tablet, chewable - DailyMed - NIHdailymed.nlm.nih.gov
    Passage read from this source
    Carprofen is an NSAID, and as with others in that class, adverse reactions may occur with its use. The most frequently reported effects have been gastrointestinal signs. Events involving suspected renal, hematologic, neurologic, dermatologic, and hepatic effects have also been reported. Patients at greatest risk for renal toxicity are those that are dehydrated, on concomitant diuretic therapy, or those with renal, cardiovascular, and/or hepatic dysfunction. Concurrent administration of potentially nephrotoxic drugs should be approached cautiously, with appropriate monitoring. Concomitant use of carprofen with other anti-inflammatory drugs, such as other NSAIDs or corticosteroids, should be avoided because of the potential increase of adverse reactions, including gastrointestinal ulcerations and/or perforations. Sensitivity to drug-associated adverse reactions varies with the individual patient. Dogs that…
    Always provide Client Information Sheet with prescription. Carefully consider the potential benefits and risk of OstiFen and other treatment options before deciding to use OstiFen. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual response. The recommended dosage for oral administration to dogs is 2 mg/lb of body weight daily. The total daily dose may be administered as 2 mg/lb of body weight once daily or divided and administered as 1 mg/lb twice daily. For the control of postoperative pain, administer approximately 2 hours before the procedure. OstiFen chewable tablets are scored and dosage should be calculated in half-tablet increments. Tablets can be halved by placing the tablet on a hard surface and pressing down on both…
    Separate placebo-controlled, masked, multicenter-field studies confirmed the effectiveness of carprofen caplets for the control of postoperative pain when dosed at 2 mg/lb once daily in various breeds of dogs. In these studies, dogs presented for ovariohysterectomy, cruciate repair and aural surgeries were administered carprofen preoperatively and for a maximum of 3 days (soft tissue) or 4 days (orthopedic) postoperatively. In general, dogs administered carprofen showed statistically significant reduction in pain scores compared to controls. - ANIMAL SAFETY: Laboratory studies in unanesthetized dogs and clinical field studies have demonstrated that carprofen is well tolerated in dogs after oral administration.
    Clinical field studies were conducted with 549 dogs of different breeds at the recommended oral doses for 14 days (297 dogs were included in a study evaluating 1 mg/lb twice daily and 252 dogs were included in a separate study evaluating 2 mg/lb once daily). In both studies the drug was clinically well tolerated and the incidence of clinical adverse reactions for carprofen-treated animals was no higher than placebo-treated animals (placebo contained inactive ingredients found in carprofen caplets). For animals receiving 1mg/lb twice daily, the mean post-treatment serum ALT values were 11 IU greater and 9 IU less than pre-treatment values for dogs receiving carprofen and placebo, respectively.
  10. LOXICOM- meloxicam suspensiondailymed.nlm.nih.gov
    Passage read from this source
    The chemical name for Meloxicam is 4-Hydroxy-2-methyl-N-(5-methyl-2-thiazolyl)-2H-1,2-benzothiazine-3- carbox-amide-1, 1-dioxide. The formulation is a yellowish viscous suspension. Indications: Loxicom Oral Suspension is indicated for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs. Dosage and Administration: Always provide client information sheet with prescription. Carefully consider the potential benefits and risk of Loxicom Oral Suspension and other treatment options before deciding to use Loxicom Oral Suspension. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual response. Loxicom Oral Suspension should be ®
    Serious adverse reactions associated with this drug class can occur without warning and in rare situations result in death (see Adverse Reactions). Owners should be advised to discontinue Loxicom and contact their veterinarian immediately if signs of intolerance are observed. The vast majority of patients with drug related adverse reactions have recovered when the signs are recognized, the drug is withdrawn, and veterinary care, if appropriate, is initiated. Owners should be advised of the importance of periodic follow up for all dogs during administration of any NSAID. Clinical Pharmacology: Meloxicam has nearly 100% bioavailability when administered orally with food. The terminal elimination half-life after a single dose is estimated to be approximately 24 hrs (+/-30%) regardless of route of administration.
    parameters. In the second field study (n=48), dogs receiving meloxicam showed a clinical improvement after 14 days of therapy for all parameters; however, statistical significance was demonstrated only for the overall investigator evaluation on day 7, and for the owner evaluation on day 14. Safety: Six Week Study In a six week target animal safety study, meloxicam was administered orally at 1, 3, and 5X the recommended dose with no significant clinical adverse reactions. Animals in all dose groups (control, 1, 3 and 5X the recommended dose) exhibited some gastrointestinal distress (diarrhea and vomiting). No treatment-related changes were observed in hematological, blood chemistry, urinalysis, clotting time, or buccal mucosal bleeding times. Necropsy results included stomach mucosal petechiae in one control…
    Small intestinal microscopic changes included minimal focal mucosal erosion affecting the villi, and were sometimes associated with mucosal congestion. These lesions were observed in the ileum of one control dog and in the jejunum of one dog at the recommended dose and two dogs at the 5X dose. Six Month Study In a six month target animal safety study, meloxicam was administered orally at 1, 3, and 5X the recommended dose with no significant clinical adverse reactions. All animals in all dose groups (controls, 1, 3, and 5X the recommended dose) exhibited some gastrointestinal distress (diarrhea and vomiting).
  11. Metacam® (meloxicam oral suspension) 1.5 mg/mLdailymed.nlm.nih.gov
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    Field safety was evaluated in 306 dogs. Based on the results of two studies, GI abnormalities (vomiting, soft stools, diarrhea, and inappetence) were the most common adverse reactions associated with the administration of meloxicam. The following table lists adverse reactions and the numbers of dogs that experienced them during the studies. Dogs may have experienced more than one episode of the adverse reaction during the study. In foreign suspected adverse drug reaction (SADR) reporting over a 9 year period, incidences of adverse reactions related to meloxicam administration included: auto-immune hemolytic anemia (1 dog), thrombocytopenia (1 dog), polyarthritis (1 dog), nursing puppy lethargy (1 dog), and pyoderma (1 dog).
    In a six week target animal safety study, meloxicam was administered orally at 1, 3, and 5X the recommended dose with no significant clinical adverse reactions. Animals in all dose groups (control, 1, 3 and 5X the recommended dose) exhibited some gastrointestinal distress (diarrhea and vomiting). No treatment-related changes were observed in hematological, blood chemistry, urinalysis, clotting time, or buccal mucosal bleeding times. Necropsy results included stomach mucosal petechiae in one control dog, two dogs at the 3X and one dog at the 5X dose. Other macroscopic changes included areas of congestion or depression of the mucosa of the jejunum or ileum in three dogs at the 1X dose and in two dogs at the 5X dose. Similar changes were…
    In a six month target animal safety study, meloxicam was administered orally at 1, 3, and 5X the recommended dose with no significant clinical adverse reactions. All animals in all dose groups (controls, 1, 3, and 5X the recommended dose) exhibited some gastrointestinal distress (diarrhea and vomiting). Treatment related changes seen in hematology and chemistry included decreased red blood cell counts in seven of 24 dogs (four 3X and three 5X dogs), decreased hematocrit in 18 of 24 dogs (including three control dogs), dose related neutrophilia in one 1X, two 3X and three 5X dogs, evidence of regenerative anemia in two 3X and one 5X dog. Also noted were increased BUN in two 5X dogs and decreased albumin in one…
    No macroscopic or microscopic renal changes were observed in any dogs receiving meloxicam in this six month study. Microscopic gastrointestinal findings were limited to one dog at the recommended dose, and two dogs at the 3X dose. Mild inflammatory mucosal infiltrate was observed in the duodenum of one dog at the recommended dose. Mild congestion of the fundic mucosa and mild myositis of the outer mural musculature of the stomach were observed in two dogs receiving the 3X dose.
  12. Meloxicam Injection 5 mg/mL Solution for Injectiondailymed.nlm.nih.gov
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    Carefully consider the potential benefits and risk of Meloxicam and other treatment options before deciding to use Meloxicam. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual response. Dogs: Meloxicam Injection should be administered initially as a single dose at 0.09 mg/lb (0.2 mg/kg) body weight intravenously (IV) or subcutaneously (SQ), followed, after 24 hours, by meloxicam oral suspension at the daily dose of 0.045 mg/lb (0.1 mg/kg) body weight, either mixed with food or placed directly in the mouth.
    Meloxicam, like other NSAIDs, is not free from adverse reactions. Owners should be advised of the potential for adverse reactions and be informed of the clinical signs associated with NSAID intolerance. Adverse reactions may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, decreased appetite and behavioral changes. Dog owners should be advised when their pet has received a meloxicam injection. Dog owners should contact their veterinarian immediately if possible adverse reactions are observed, and dog owners should be advised to discontinue meloxicam therapy.
    Carefully consider the potential benefits and risk of Meloxicam and other treatment options before deciding to use Meloxicam. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual response. Cats: Administer a single, one-time subcutaneous dose of Meloxicam Injection to cats at a dose of 0.14 mg/lb (0.3 mg/kg) body weight. Use of additional meloxicam or other NSAIDs is contraindicated. (See Contraindications). To ensure accuracy of dosing, the use of a 1 mL graduated syringe is recommended.
    Cats with known hypersensitivity to meloxicam should not receive Meloxicam Injection. Additional doses of meloxicam or other NSAIDs in cats are contraindicated, as no safe dosage for repeated NSAID administration has been established (See Animal Safety). Do not use meloxicam in cats with pre-existing renal dysfunction.

For veterinary professionals. Information supports — never replaces — clinical judgement; always check the current product label and local regulations.

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