Ketoprofen for Dogs

Ketoprofen is a medication that is used to treat both chronic and short-term pain in dogs. Ketoprofen belongs to a class of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS). It is used to reduce pain and inflammation. It is an over the counter medication, but should only be used under the supervision of a veterinarian. Ketoprofen can cause serious side effects.

  1. Features

    • Ketoprofen is an analgesic and inflammatory medication that is used in canines to treat pain and inflammation in a variety of conditions. It is used for the short-term management of post-surgical pain, and is prescribed for soft tissue injuries and other musculoskeletal disorders that dogs may suffer from. Ketoprofen is used for the long-term management of chronic pain and inflammation due to osteoarthritis. It is estimated that up to 20 percent of adult dogs suffer from osteoarthritis. Ketoprofen may be used to control high fevers due to bacterial and viral infections.

    Function

    • Ketoprofen controls pain and inflammation by blocking enzymes called Cox-1 and Cox-2 enzymes. These enzymes are responsible for producing prostaglandins. By blocking these enzymes, this inhibits the production of prostaglandins and other inflammatory mediators. This reduces swelling and pain.

    Dosage

    • Ketoprofen is available as an injection or in oral form. Ketoprofen as an injection is most often used for post-surgical treatment of pain. Orally, Ketoprofen is available as a tablet or an extended-release capsule. Ketoprofen is available in 12.5 mg, 25 mg, or 75 mg tablets. Ketoprofen extended-release capsules are sold in 100 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg doses. The duration of treatment with Ketoprofen depends on the condition being treated, the dog's individual response to the medication and the development of any side effects.

    Side Effects

    • Ketoprofen may cause side effects. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal disorders such as vomiting, lack of appetite, and diarrhea. Ketoprofen may cause weakness and lethargy. More serious side effects have been reported including stomach ulcers and kidney damage. Ketoprofen may cause a decrease in blood counts due to stomach bleeding. Gastrointestinal protecting drugs including misprostol, omeprazole, or sucralfate are often prescribed in conjunction with ketoprofen to help minimize these side effects.

    Considerations

    • Dogs with a known allergy to NSAIDS should not take ketoprofen. Dogs with liver or blood abnormalities should not use ketoprofen. If a dog has a known gastrointestinal disorders, such as an ulcer, ketoprofen should be avoided. Ketoprofen should not be used with other NSAIDS. Ketoprofen may interact and should not be taken with aspirin, corticosteroids, or anticoagulant medications such as heparin.