Rimadyl For Dogs: Dosage Chart, Side Effects, Uses, Safety & More

Has your veterinarian recommended the popular dog painkiller Rimadyl? Before giving it to your pup, you may want to learn more about this FDA-approved veterinary drug. What does Rimadyl do for dogs? What are the side effects? And is it safe?

I’ll answer these questions and more to help you make an informed decision with your vet about whether Rimadyl is the best option for your dog’s pain relief or if an alternative medication is a better choice.

What Is Rimadyl For Dogs?

Rimadyl is the most popular brand name for the prescription veterinary medication carprofen, which belongs to a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). What is Rimadyl used for in dogs?

• To control symptoms of osteoarthritis, including joint pain, inflammation, swelling, and stiffness
• To treat inflammation and pain in dogs, for example after surgery
• To reduce fever

Veterinary vs Human NSAIDs

Although you may have human NSAIDs in your medicine cabinets (ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen, etc.), it’s important to use a vet-prescribed NSAID medication and dosage for your dog. Never give your dog a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug meant for humans. 

How Much Rimadyl Can I Give My Dog?

Rimadyl comes in caplets, chewable tablets, and an injection. You can talk to your vet about the best form for your dog’s situation. The caplets and chewable tablets come in three strengths: 25mg, 75mg, and 100mg. The typical dosage is 2.0mg/lb once per day. However, the exact dose will depend on your specific dog and his condition. It’s crucial to stick to the dosage and frequency your vet prescribes.

Do I need a prescription for Rimadyl for dogs? Yes, your vet must prescribe it, and he or she will prescribe the ideal strength for your dog’s weight. Rimadyl dosage for dogs after surgery is the same as when being used to treat osteoarthritis pain.

Rimadyl Dosage Chart For Dogs

I Accidentally Gave My Dog A Double Dose Of Rimadyl: What Should I Do?

If you’re worried about your dog overdosing, you may be wondering: how much Rimadyl is toxic to dogs? A Rimadyl overdose in dogs, even just with an accidental double dose, requires an immediate call to your vet. See below for some of the serious side effects that this drug can cause.

Rimadyl For Dogs Side Effects

Although most dogs have mild side effects from Rimadyl, there are some rare but serious side effects to consider.

Mild Side Effects

Mild side effects mainly involve such gastrointestinal issues as:

• Mild vomiting
• Mild diarrhea
• Temporary constipation
• Temporary lack of appetite

Serious Side Effects

Serious side effects include liver and kidney damage or gastrointestinal damage from GI bleeding and ulcers. Here are the signs to watch out for if your dog is having an adverse reaction to Rimadyl. If you notice any of these signs, call your vet immediately.

• Severe vomiting
• Severe diarrhea
• Black or bloody stools
• Bloody vomiting
• Increased or decreased drinking
• Increased or decreased urination
• Yellowing of gums, whites of the eyes, or skin (signs of jaundice)
• Incoordination
• Severe lethargy
• Change in skin (redness, scabs, or scratching)
• Persistent lack of appetite

Rimadyl And Liver Damage In Dogs

In rare cases, Rimadyl can cause liver damage in older dogs or dogs taking it long-term. (This is the case with all NSAIDs for dogs). Most vets recommend bloodwork to test for the health of the liver before considering long-term use, as well as periodic follow-up bloodwork to monitor the liver. Short-term uses to manage post-operative pain haven’t been shown to cause liver damage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rimadyl Side Effects

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Rimadyl reactions in dogs. And remember to talk to your vet about any possible side effects from any medication your dog takes.

Does Rimadyl Make Dogs Sleepy?

Yes, Rimadyl does make some dogs tired. As long as your dog isn’t suffering from severe lethargy, this usually isn’t a cause for concern.

Does Rimadyl Make Dogs Hyper?

No, there’s no concrete evidence that Rimadyl makes dogs hyperactive. However, if your dog does start showing aggression or significant behavioral changes after starting Rimadyl, you should check with your vet to make sure he’s not having an adverse reaction.

Does Rimadyl Cause Panting In Dogs?

Panting isn’t one of the listed side effects of Rimadyl in dogs. But if your dog is panting excessively after taking it, you should contact your vet.

Can Rimadyl Cause Itching In Dogs?

In rare cases, Rimadyl can cause skin problems in dogs, including itching, redness, and scabs. If you notice any of these signs after your dog begins taking Rimadyl, it’s important to contact your vet.

Does Rimadyl Cause Diarrhea In Dogs?

Yes, diarrhea is one of the main side effects of Rimadyl. Most cases are mild and should clear up quickly. But if your dog has severe or prolonged diarrhea, contact your vet. This could indicate an adverse reaction.

Can Rimadyl Cause Pancreatitis In Dogs?

While there’s no strong evidence that NSAIDs, including Rimadyl, can cause pancreatitis in dogs, there’s some speculation that it’s possible. However, NSAIDs are often prescribed for dogs suffering from acute pancreatitis to help manage the pain. If you’re concerned about your dog developing pancreatitis, we encourage you to talk to your vet.

Does Pet Insurance Cover Rimadyl?

Rimadyl and other medicines are eligible for coverage through most pet insurance policies, but there are restrictions. Typically, vet-prescribed medications are covered through insurance unless it’s for a pre-existing condition. However, some pet insurance companies require upgrades to your policy for prescription coverage. Learn more about the best companies in our pet insurance reviews and get a custom quote in the form below.

Is Rimadyl Safe For My Dog?

Some dogs shouldn’t take Rimadyl dog medicine. That’s why it’s important to make sure your vet has a complete health history of your dog to determine if he’s a good candidate for Rimadyl or if it should be avoided. Dogs with liver or kidney disease, allergies to NSAIDs, or bleeding disorders, such as Von Willebrand disease, should not take Rimadyl. Vets also use caution in older dogs, dogs younger than six weeks of age, and pregnant or lactating dogs.

Cost Of Rimadyl For Dogs

View Rimadyl on Chewy | View Carprofen on Chewy

The average cost for 30 pills is $60, depending on the strength your dog needs. If you’re on a tight budget, you may be wondering if there’s a generic Rimadyl for dogs. Fortunately, yes, there is.

Rimadyl is one of several brand names for the drug carprofen. Many dog pharmacies carry generic carprofen, which is significantly less expensive.

Can Rimadyl Be Given With Other Medications?

Rimadyl should not be given with other NSAIDs or steroids. Tell your veterinarian about all medicines your dog is currently taking or that you plan to give your dog, including non-prescription medications and supplements. Your vet will need to make sure that they’re safe to take together with Rimadyl.

Here are some specific combinations that pet parents often ask about concerning Rimadyl.

Are Rimadyl And Gabapentin Safe Given Together?

Gabapentin (brand names: Neurontin & Gralise) is an anticonvulsant drug used to treat humans. Veterinarians frequently use an off-label version (not FDA-approved for veterinary use) of this anti-seizure and pain medication for dogs. Some veterinarians have found that Rimadyl and Gabapentin together prove to be a highly effective pain relief therapy for dogs. Talk to your vet to see if your pup could benefit from this medication combo. Learn more about gabapentin for dogs.

Can I Give My Dog Turmeric With Rimadyl?

Turmeric is a supplement that some pet parents give their dogs to help ease joint pain in arthritic dogs. But is it safe together with Rimadyl? Tumeric and other supplements could interfere with the efficacy of Rimadyl and even worsen side effects. As with any supplement, it’s best to talk to your vet about using it together with Rimadyl.

What Can I Give My Dog Instead Of Rimadyl?

There are several alternatives you may want to discuss with your vet if you’re concerned about the side effects of Rimadyl. Talk to your vet about other painkillers or pain management therapies that could be good options for your pup’s arthritis.

Previcox vs Rimadyl For Dogs

Previcox (firocoxib) is another popular veterinary NSAID prescribed for the same types of pain relief that Rimadyl delivers. The potential side effects are essentially the same for all NSAIDs, but every dog reacts differently to certain medications. If your dog isn’t tolerating Rimadyl well, or you don’t think it’s working well to manage your dog’s pain, you can talk to your vet about switching to Previcox.

Aspirin vs Rimadyl For Dogs

Aspirin is a human NSAID that shares many of the same medicinal properties (and side effects) as Rimadyl. However, most veterinarians advise using Rimadyl instead of aspirin for dogs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some more questions you may have about Rimadyl and dogs. Don’t see yours here? Ask us in our comments.

How Long Can A Dog Take Rimadyl?

For chronic conditions like arthritis, dogs can take Rimadyl for the rest of their lives to manage chronic pain effectively. Long-term use is typically safe in otherwise healthy dogs. However, dogs with certain conditions shouldn’t take Rimadyl or any other NSAID for more than a few days. Your vet will discuss these risks with you before prescribing Rimadyl for your pup.

Should Rimadyl Be Given With Food?

Rimadyl is equally effective when you give it to your pup with or without food. However, if your pup has a sensitive stomach, it’s better to give it just before or after mealtime to avoid gastrointestinal issues.

Rimadyl For Dogs: How Fast Does It Work?

Regarding pain relief, we’re sure you’re wondering, “How long does it take for Rimadyl to start working in dogs?” Typically, it takes one to two hours for Rimadyl to kick in and provide your pup relief. However, depending on your pup’s condition and type of inflammation, it may take a few days to notice signs of improvement.

Can Rimadyl Cause Death?

“Rimadyl killed my dog,” says one owner who sued the veterinary clinic where a vet prescribed Rimadyl for her dog without warning her of the possible serious side effects. The brief news clip below shares her tragic story.

The FDA has issued guidelines for veterinarians to disclose the side effects of Rimadyl and other veterinary NSAIDs to their patients’ owners. These guidelines do say that “death may result in some instances.”

Arthritis In Dogs And Other Pain Relief Options

If you suspect your dog may have osteoarthritis, our article on arthritis in dogs can help you learn more about the symptoms, diagnosis, and many treatment options. Our experts also cover the best pain medications for dogs, including some all-natural alternatives. If you’re concerned about the side effects of Rimadyl and other NSAIDs, discuss this and other pain relief options with your vet. The good news is that several different types of pain management therapies can help your aching pup.

Why Trust Canine Journal?

Sally has over 20 years of experience in human health sciences communications, including 10 years as an expert on pet health conditions and treatment. She’s also spent over a decade researching pet insurance as part of an expert team at Canine Journal. As dedicated canine professionals and long-time dog owners, we test and research the best pet products, not only for our own pups but for all of our readers.