FieldDx

Drug reference · Carprofen

CarprofenDose, contraindications and adverse effects for Cats, Cattle, Dogs, Horses, Pigs and Sheep.

What it is used for

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Alleviation of pain and inflammation.

Dose by species

Dose1.4 mg/kg IVSwine
Dose8 mg/kg PO once dailySheep
Dose1–4 mg/kg SC q12-24hFerrets
Dose2–4 mg/kg PO q12-24hRabbits
Dose2.2 mg/kg PO q12hDogs
Dose2.2 mg/kg SQ q12hDogs

Doses are shown as published, not averaged across sources. Enter the animal’s body weight in the interactive drug guide to calculate the amount.

How it works

Anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent.

Do not use in

Do not use in cats at doses intended for dogs. Do not administer to animals prone to GI ulcers. Do not administer with ulcerogenic drugs such as corticosteroids. If a patient has had previous adverse effects from NSAIDs, carprofen should be used cautiously.

Main adverse effects

The safety of carprofen in dogs was determined by the sponsor during preclinical studies. The most common adverse effect in dogs has been in the GI tract (vomiting, anorexia, and diarrhea). GI ulcers, perforation, and bleeding are uncommon in dogs but possible. In rare cases, carprofen has caused idiosyncratic acute hepatic toxicity in dogs. Signs of toxicity usually appear 2–3 weeks after exposure.

Monitoring

After administration has begun, one should monitor hepatic enzymes for evidence of drug-induced hepatic toxicity approximately 7–14 days after treatment has started. If liver enzymes are elevated, discontinue the medication and contact the drug manufacturer.

Withdrawal

A withdrawal interval is stated for this drug. It depends on the formulation, route and dose, so read the exact wording in the interactive drug guide before treating a food animal.

Similar drugs

Flunixin Meglumine Tolfenamic Acid Flunixin Meloxicam

Source

Plumb (pp. 190, 471, 609, 736, 760, 861, 916).

Papich Handbook of Veterinary Drugs, 5th Edition (p. 131)

Condensed and attributed, never reproduced whole. Open the full entry in the app.