Deramaxx is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug̵2;also called an NSAID̵2;used on dogs to relieve and manage pain that is caused by osteoarthritis. While using Deramaxx can help to improve your canine̵7;s quality of life by decreasing the amount of pain it is in, it also comes with potentially serious side effects. Determining whether the risks of using Deramaxx outweigh the benefits can be difficult, but it is essential before placing your dog on this drug. Careful monitoring of your dog̵7;s health is necessary when using Deramaxx, along with close supervision of a veterinarian.
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Decreased Pain
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Deramaxx is typically effective when used to relieve the pain caused by osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a condition in which one or more joints are inflamed. If left untreated, damaged cartilage causes inflammation when the tissue tries to heal itself̵2;a process that is very painful. Along with the discomfort, comes a decrease in exercise, which typically causes muscle and strength loss. Deramaxx, like other NSAIDs, helps to reduce that inflammation and discomfort; therefore, relieving the pain, according to Deramaxx.com. Your dog may act like its old self again when placed on Deramaxx, by playing more and getting around easier.
Digestive System Troubles
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Dogs on Deramaxx may experience issues with their digestive systems, states Deramaxx.com. This can include vomiting, diarrhea and bloody or black stool. These symptoms could be indicative of gastrointestinal ulceration or kidney or liver trouble. If your dog begins to experience any of these issues, it is imperative to stop giving the dog Deramaxx and contact your veterinarian immediately.
Liver and Kidney Damage
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Dogs that are placed on Deramaxx for either long- or short-term use should have blood tests performed prior to taking the medication. This will ensure that the liver and kidneys are not already damaged and can theoretically handle the medication. However, blood tests should also be performed routinely to monitor that the Deramaxx isn̵7;t causing any damage to these vital organs. NSAIDs, such as Deramaxx, can cause the body to lose its ability to regulate electrolytes, which can cause extreme elevations in blood pressure and damaged kidneys, according to OnlyPetCare.com. In addition, Deramaxx can cause increases in the BUN and creatinine levels, which are indicative of kidney failure. Even after a dog is taken off of Deramaxx, the damage can be irreversible.
A dog̵7;s liver also can experience trauma because of Deramaxx use. Liver issues can arise if there are toxic amounts of the drug in the blood. OnlyPetCare.com states that it is not completely understood how drugs such as Deramaxx adversely affect the liver; however, it is believed to be caused by toxic levels of the drug in the blood.
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