Etodoloac is a non steroidal pain medication that can be usedin dogs that suffer form arthritis or joint pain. Arthritis is acondition that cannot be cured, but if the pain and swelling aremanaged, the dog will be comfortable. Etodolac can manage both symptomsof arthritis and consequently, it is commonly used in arthritis dogs.
Uses of Etodolac
Etodolac is a prescription drug that is also marketed as Lodine andEtoGesic. Etodolac belongs to the non steroidal anti inflammatory classof drugs (NSAIDs).
The Etodolac compounds are effective in reducing:
The drug is often used in dogs with arthritis, infections that cause fever or to reduce muscular swelling or pain.
The drug has been FDA approved for veterinary use.
Dosage Information
The dosage of Etodolac will be established by the vet. Etodolac isonly available through prescription and may be administered as tabletsor injections. The dosage will be established judging by the dog’scondition, the severity of the dog’s condition, the age of the dog andhis weight.
If your dog requires Etodolac, you should follow the dosageguidelines as indicated by the vet. Don’t administer more pills thanyour vet recommends, not even if you notice your dog is in pain. If yoususpect the drug is not effective in managing the dog’s pain, visit thevet and let the vet know about the dog’s symptoms.
Etodolac Side Effects
Etodolac may have some common side effects, experienced by most dogs that get treatment:
- Rashes on the skin
- Lack of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Changes in the frequency of the urination
- Fever
- Blisters on the surface of the skin
- Skin flaking
Even if Etodolac is a non steroidal anti inflammatory drug, it may have severe side effects such as
- Blood in the feces
- Blood in the vomit
- Jaundice (yellow shade of eyes)
- Gastric ulcers
- Seizures
If the side effects are severe, you should notify the vet and the treatment should be immediately discontinued.
Etodolac Allergies
Some canines may be allergic to Etodolac or the compounds of the drugand may develop allergic reactions that may range from mild to severe.
The mild allergic reactions will include skin rashes and itchiness,which are temporary symptoms and should disappear if the dog gets usedto the treatment.
However, some dogs may develop severe allergies to Etodolac, manifested through:
- Breathing difficulties
- Swelling of the paws
- Swelling of the face, tongue and throat
Should these reactions occur, the dog has to be taken to an emergency clinic.
Contraindications
Etodolac shouldn’t be used in small dog breeds or dogs that weighless than 11 pounds. The compounds may be toxic for small dogs and maycause severe liver damage.
Etodolac may not be a solution for dogs that have gastric ulcers or frequent digestion problems.
Etodolac is not recommended for pregnant or lactating dogs.