Deramaxx Vs. Rimadyl

DERAMAXX and Rimadyl are both prescription-only, FDA-approved drugs administered to canines to control post-operative pain or the pain of osteoarthritis. Which one works best may simply depend on your dog--just like finding the right medication and dosage for a human.

  1. DERAMAXX

    • DERAMAXX, generic name deracoxib and manufactured by Novartis Animal Health, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is given to dogs to help control post-operative pain or the pain of osteoarthritis. It is available in chewable form and each dose is purported to offer relief for 24 hours.

    Rimadyl

    • Rimadyl, generic name carprofen and manufactured by Pfizer Animal Health, is another NSAID that helps control the pain of surgery and osteoarthritis. Rimadyl is available in capsule, injectable and chewable forms and each dose is purported to offer relief for 24 hours.

    Osteoarthritis

    • Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease found in both humans and canines that causes joint pain, inflammation and stiffness. If your dog is showing stiffness or limping, a reluctance to get up from bed, experiencing a loss of appetite, or other atypical behaviors, it may have osteoarthritis. Your veterinarian can make a diagnosis and recommendations for medication.

    Side Effects of NSAIDs

    • As with any medication for humans or animals, there may be side effects or symptoms of intolerance with the use of both DERAMAXX or Rimadyl. More serious side effects of NSAIDs (human medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen are also NSAIDs) can involve the stomach, such as bleeding ulcers, and liver or kidney problems.

    Warning

    • If your canine is vomiting or has diarrhea or appetite loss, it could indicate intolerance or a severe reaction to either DERAMAXX or Rimadyl that can affect the digestive system, kidneys or liver. If side effects continue, stop medicating and consult your veterinarian immediately.

    Considerations

    • There has been more controversy over Rimadyl and the side effects and/or deaths reported in dogs due to potential use; however, statistics may be higher simply because Rimadyl was the first FDA-approved drug for canine osteoarthritis on the market. It is worth remembering that all drugs carry risk, and while it's up to the doctor to relay potential side effects, it's up to the patient to decide whether the risk is worth the benefit.