Canine hip displacement can occur as a result of trauma or severe canine hip dysplasia. Hip displacement means that the ball of the hip joint is not seated properly in the socket of the joint. This can cause severe pain to your dog and lead to complications with the joint cartilage as well as osteoarthritis. The treatment of choice for canine hip displacement is surgery; however oral and injectible medications can help alleviate pain and swelling and can assist in the repair and formulation of new cartilage.
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Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
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Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that have been developed specifically for dogs are very effective at reducing the pain and inflammation associated with hip displacement. These medications include Rimadyl, EtoGesic, Deramaxx, Previcox and Zubrin.
Corticosteroids
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Before the development of NSAIDs, corticosteroids were the drug of choice when treating the pain and inflammation associated with canine hip displacement. Although still widely used, corticosteroids can produce serious short-term and long-term side effects.
Glucosamine And Chondroitin
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Glucosamine and chondroitin are oral supplements that assist cartilage-forming cells (chondrocytes) in the development of new cartilage, and help repair existing damage. These medications must be taken for about six weeks before your dog will begin showing improvement, according to Doctors Foster and Smith.
Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan
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Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan (Adequan) is a series of intramuscular injections given over a four-week period. Adequan helps prevent the breakdown of cartilage and may also help in the development of new cartilage. This medication is useful when treating displacement associated with hip dysplasia.
Pain Relievers
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Medications that are specifically designed to alleviate pain but do not have anti-inflammatory properties are called analgesics. Tramadol, Amantadine and Gabapentin are common analgesics used in the pain management of many orthopedic conditions.
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