Pain Relief Drugs
A common family of drugs known as NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) is sometimes used to provide pain relief in pets.
They are used frequently for post-operative pain relief and pain relief for other conditions such as arthritis. Whilst in most cases their use is very effective, there are some potential side effects you should be aware of:
- Decrease in appetite
- Vomiting
- Change in bowel movements (such as diarrhea, or black, tarry or bloody stools)
- Change in behaviour (such as decreased activity level, incoordination, seizures or aggression)
- Yellowing of gums, skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice)
- Change in drinking habits (frequency, amount consumed)
- Change in urination habits (frequency or colour)
If you notice any of these possible side effects, stop the medication and contact your veterinarian.
Other things to be aware of include:
- NSAID’s should always be used in accordance with the prescription on the label.
- Never combine with aspirin or steroids
- Give NSAID’s with food
- Watch out for any of the side effects mentioned above
- If using NSAID’s long term, your veterinarian may recommend regular blood work and checkups to ensure liver and kidney function remains normal.