Rimadyl Dosage for Dogs

Rimadyl is a prescription medication for dogs. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved this drug for reducing the pain and inflammation of canine osteoarthritis.

  1. Oral Rimadyl

    • Rimadyl is prescribed as caplets and in chewable tablets. The tablets are easy to break into smaller doses.

    Injectable Rimadyl

    • Rimadyl is available as an injectable solution. The injection provides the same medication as tablets but is used when a dog is in pain or unable to take oral medication.

    Dosage

    • Recommended dosage for a dog is daily 2 mg/lb of dog weight. The dosage may be given as 2 mg/lb once a day, though most veterinarians recommend dividing this dose and giving 1 mg/lb twice daily.

    Food

    • Usually Rimadyl is given with food to reduce stomach upset.

    Interaction

    • Rimadyl contains carprofen, an NSAID analgesic. This pain-reliever may interact with other medications. Report any unusual symptoms or reactions to the prescribing veterinarian.

    Warning

    • Some dogs do not tolerate Rimadyl or other NSAIDs well. Watch for side effects such as digestive distress, kidney problems or blood in the stool. Call the veterinarian or clinic immediately.