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Carprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used in dogs to relieve pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, soft-tissue surgery, and orthopedic procedures. It is one of the most prescribed canine NSAIDs in the United States and is sold under several brand names — Rimadyl, Carprovet, Carprieve, Novox — all of which are pharmaceutically equivalent generic versions of the same active ingredient. Carprofen works by selectively inhibiting the COX-2 enzyme that drives pain and swelling, while sparing much of the COX-1 activity that protects the stomach lining and kidneys.
What carprofen is used for
Veterinarians prescribe carprofen for dogs with osteoarthritis (the slow, stiff getting up after a nap; reluctance on stairs; lameness after exercise), for control of post-surgical pain after spays, neuters, dental cleanings, mass removals, and orthopedic procedures, and for short-term relief of acute injuries and soft-tissue inflammation. The chewable beef-flavored tablets make it one of the easiest pain medications to administer, and the medication typically begins working within 1–2 hours of dosing.
Important considerations
Carprofen is for dogs only — it is not approved for cats, who lack the enzyme needed to metabolize it safely. Give with food to reduce GI upset. Common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite; serious but rare effects include GI ulceration, kidney injury, and idiosyncratic liver reactions — call your veterinarian immediately if your dog stops eating, vomits repeatedly, develops black or tarry stool, or becomes jaundiced. Baseline bloodwork is recommended before starting long-term carprofen, with periodic rechecks every 6 months. Never combine carprofen with another NSAID or with corticosteroids (prednisone, prednisolone, dexamethasone) — the combination dramatically raises the risk of stomach ulcers and kidney damage. Use cautiously in dogs with kidney, liver, or bleeding disorders.
Smarty Vets dispenses both brand-name (Rimadyl) and generic (Carprovet, Carprieve, Novox) carprofen with a valid veterinary prescription.
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