Carprofen (Generic to Rimadyl-Novox-Vetprofen)

Product Information

Caprofen is the generic alternative to Rimadyl. It helps relieve the pain and inflammation associated with joint abnormalities and arthritis in dogs. It can also be helpful in managing post-operative pain.

What is Caprofen? Caprofen is a generic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID) that contains carprofen which is the active ingredient in Rimadyl. NSAIDs generally help manage the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis and other joint problems.

Caprofen is formulated for: dogs over 6 weeks. The safe use of Caprofen in dogs under 6 weeks of age has not been studied. Although Caprofen is labeled for dogs only, some veterinarians may prescribe it for small animals and birds. Do not give Caprofen to cats.

What are the benefits of Caprofen? Caprofen is a branded alternative to Rimadyl. It is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication that helps to relieve pain and inflammation associated with arthritis in dogs. It can also be effective in managing other joint conditions and can be used to minimize post-operative pain. Scored tablets make it easy to dose accurately.

How does Caprofen work? Caprofen reduces chemicals in the body called prostaglandins that are responsible for inflammation and pain.

How is Caprofen administered? Caprofen is given orally (by mouth). It can be given once or twice a day but your veterinarian will provide you with precise directions. Caprofen can be given with food to reduce the chance of stomach/intestinal side effects. This medication should only be given to the pet for which it was prescribed. The goal is to use Caprofen at the lowest dose and frequency possible to provide relief.

What results can I expect? Caprofen will not cure arthritis as there is no cure for this. It will, however, help relieve the inflammation and pain associated with arthritis, other joint abnormalities, and surgery. This will help your dog to feel better. Each dog’s response is different but Caprofen should help increase your dog’s activity and quality of life. If you discontinue Caprofen, symptoms may reoccur.

What Form(s) does Caprofen come in? Caprofen is a scored tablet (caplet) that comes in 25 mg, 75 mg, and 100 mg strengths.

Common Brand Name: Rimadyl is the brand name for carprofen.

Generic Name: Caprofen (Vedco) is the branded generic of carprofen. Carprofen is the active ingredient.

Uses: Caprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication that is used to treat pain and inflammation that is caused by arthritis, surgery, and other joint abnormalities. If you think your dog has arthritis or a similar condition, ask your veterinarian if Caprofen may be able to help.

Dose and Administration: Caprofen is an oral medication that your pet takes by mouth. It can be give one to two times daily but your veterinarian will determine the dose and frequency that is ideal for your dog. Giving Caprofen with food can sometimes help to decrease gastrointestinal upset. If you miss a dose, you should give as soon as you remember. If it is time for the next dose, just skip the dose that you missed so that you do not give two doses at once. Only give Caprofen to the dog for which your veterinarian has prescribed it for. If there are any questions or problems giving your dog this medication, consult your veterinarian immediately.

Possible Side Effects: The most commonly reported side effect is gastrointestinal upset which may result in vomiting, diarrhea, and lack of appetite. Stomach ulcers may also develop and this can cause your dog to have bloody stools, black stools, or constipation in addition to other gastrointestinal signs. Sometimes the kidneys and liver may be affected. Symptoms of kidney problems include increased thirst, increased urination, and changes in the color and smell of your pet’s urine.

If liver problems occur, you may notice jaundice (yellowing of the gums, skin, or eyes). Pale gums, shedding, incoordination, seizures, behavioral changes, and other less common side effects are also possible. If your pet is allergic to this medication, he/she may display symptoms such as facial swelling, hives, scratching, and sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If your dog is acting abnormal in any way after starting Caprofen, contact your veterinarian immediately for further instructions.

Precautions: Do not use in cats. If your dog is hypersensitive (allergic) to carprofen or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, he/she should not take Caprofen. The safety of Caprofen given to puppies under 6 weeks of age has not been established. If your dog is experiencing any vomiting or diarrhea, has liver or kidney disease, has a bleeding disorder, may be pregnant or is nursing, or if you intend to breed your dog, it may not be wise to use Caprofen. You should discuss this with your veterinarian. Blood tests are usually necessary to monitor the safety of Caprofen especially if it is used long-term. Check with your veterinarian to see what he/she recommends in regards to follow-up testing.

Drug and Food Interactions: Always tell your veterinarian about other medications or supplements your dog is taking before starting Caprofen since drug interactions are possible. Problems can occur if Caprofen is given with other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, carprofen (Rimadyl), etodolac (EtoGesic), deracoxib (Deramaxx), firocoxib (Previcox), tepoxalin (Zubrin), and meloxicam (Metacam). This medication can also cause problems if it is given with steroids (e.g., prednisone, dexamethasone, Medrol, triamcinolone), methotrexate, furosemide (Lasix), digoxin, phenobarbital, oral anticoagulants (heparin, warfarin), enalapril, phenylpropanolamine, sulfa drugs, and some oral antidiabetic drugs.

Storage: Caprofen is stored at room temperature. It should be kept in a tight, light resistant, childproof container and should not be exposed to high heat.