Types of Pain Medication for Dogs

Dogs are known to be very expressive but when it comes to pain, the signs are often subtle or hidden. According to Petmd.com, dog owners must trust intuition and be very keen observers to know if their pet is in pain so that appropriate treatment can be given. Dogs may suffer acute or chronic pain. Acute pain comes from sudden injury, surgery, infection or inflammation. Chronic pain usually develops slowly and lasts longer. Fortunately, various types of pain medication are available for dogs.

  1. Nutraceuticals

    • Nutraceuticals come from various animal and vegetable sources and include fatty acids, amino acids, vitamins, herbs, minerals and antioxidants. Nutraceutical medicine uses these nutrients as therapeutic agents, which are rarely known to cause side effects. They are administered for pain in dogs, especially for joint problems. Glycosaminoglycans are examples of nutraceuticals and are commonly used for treating joint pain. Dog medication that contains glycosaminoglycans is usually derived from animal tissues like cartilage. These types of medication treat pain while also promoting cartilage repair.

    NSAIDs

    • NSAIDs stands for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, the most commonly prescribed types of pain medication, according to Vetinfo.com. Aspirin, ibuprofen, indomethacin and naproxen are examples of NSAIDs. They are highly effective for pain relief but can be potentially harmful if misused or administered incorrectly. Though they are safe drugs for canines, side effects that can occur include vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite and lethargy.

    Narcotics or Opioids

    • Narcotics or opioids can be prescribed as pain medication for dogs. However, due to the strength of these types of medication, they are often used as a last resort. Narcotics and opiods can induce sleep, stupor or numbness and are typically administered to pets only when the pain is quite severe or if the dog is suffering from a fatal illness. These drugs may be given in cases of severe arthritis or cancer.

    Steroids

    • Steroids are often prescribed for anti-inflammatory purposes and to decrease pain. They are effective in treating pain but are not used for long periods of time due to potential adverse side effects. When using steroids or corticosteroids, make sure you strictly adhere to your veterinarian's instructions for dosage and length of time for treatment.