With NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) being a pain relief staple in the veterinary world, we thought we’d put a spotlight on these medications – what they are, what their potential benefits and side effects can be, and how we should monitor patients who are on them.
What are NSAIDs?
NSAIDs are medicines that inhibit certain inflammatory processes in the body, so can be very useful for relieving inflammation, pain and fever. Common examples used in pets include meloxicam, carprofen, and firocoxib.
Which patients can NSAIDs help?
NSAIDs can be used in the short term to relieve pain and swelling from surgical procedures (such as after a desexing procedure, dental extractions, or joint surgery) or traumatic injuries. They can also be used to reduce pain and fever due to infections.
In the long term, NSAIDs are commonly prescribed to help manage the chronic pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
When used correctly, NSAIDs can help unwell or sore patients to feel a lot better!
What are the potential side effects of NSAIDs?
Unfortunately, as well as suppressing some processes of inflammation, NSAIDs may also interfere with other processes in the body that help to maintain normal gastrointestinal, kidney and platelet (blood clotting cell) functions. While these effects are usually fairly minimal, they can cause potentially significant problems in patients:
- With sensitive tummies
- Who are dehydrated or have reduced blood flow
- Who have significant pre-existing kidney disease
- Who are taking them long term
- With pre-existing bleeding disorders
They can also have life-threateningly toxic effects on the gut, liver and kidneys if they are administered at the wrong dose.
How can we use NSAIDs safely?
Our vets will always be selective about which patients we prescribe NSAIDs to, and if we do prescribe them, we will make clear recommendations on how to monitor for any potential side effects to help minimise risks. Patients on NSAIDs in the long term are often recommended to have regular recheck blood tests.
If you suspect that your pet is ever unwell or in pain, it’s always safest to reach out to our team promptly for advice.