Nsaids For Canine Osteoarthritis Prove Effective But Not Without Major Risks

By Author: Henry Smith
Total Articles: 95
Comment this article

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the standard form of treatment for dogs suffering from osteoarthritis. For years, NSAIDs have been prescribed to dogs with this ailment because of their effectiveness in dealing with joint pain.

Over the years, however, more and more studies are emerging that NSAIDs may not be the best treatment for canine osteoarthritis after all. NSAIDs do work by blocking the formation of chemicals in a dog's body which cause inflammation of the joints and joint pain in the affected area. Just like in any disease, the best form of treatment for osteoarthritis should be something that works to repair the source of the disease itself, in this case, degenerating cartilage in the joints. NSAIDs cannot do that. All it can do is to try to stop the inflammation and control the pain. Common names of pain killers used in treatment are Rimadyl, Tramadol, and Deramaxx. But take a look at these side effects direct from the Deramaxx web site: Vomiting, anorexia, diarrhea, melena, inappetence, hematemesis, hematochezia, weight loss, nausea, gastrointestinal ulceration, gastrointestinal perforation, ...
... salivation. Hematological: Anemia, thrombocytopenia. Hepatic: Hepatic enzyme elevations, decreased or increased total protein and globulin, decreased albumin, decreased BUN, hyperbilirubinemia, icterus, ascites, pancreatitis. Neurological: Lethargy, weakness, seizure, ataxia, tremor, nystagmus, mydriasis. Sensory: Vestibular signs, glazed eyes, uveitis. Behavioral: Aggression, apprehension. Urinary: Azotemia, polydipsia, polyuria, hematuria, low specific gravity, urinary incontinence, urinary tract infection, renal failure. Cardiovascular: Bradycardia. Respiratory: Tachypnea, coughing. Dermatological/Immunological: Fever, edema, facial/muzzle edema, pruritis, urticaria, moist dermatitis, erythema, dermal ulceration/necrosis.

Half of these symptoms, I have no idea what they are, but I am certain they are of a detrimental nature to the happiness of your pet. Moreover, studies are also stating that NSAIDs may pose even more serious side effects that can lead to permanent damage in dogs. Such damages include ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, liver and kidney damage which can lead to death. While we'll do anything to help our pets feel happy and pain free, this path of powerful drugs for treatment may be more than we bargained for.

Because of these side effects, dog owners and veterinarians are looking for alternatives to NSAIDs to deal with canine osteoarthritis. The one that stands out as most effective and with few, if any, side effects, are natural supplements with glucosamine and chondroitin. Studies have concluded that the combination of these two supplements effectively control joint pain better than NSAIDs. Glucosamine treats osteoarthritis right at its source, the degenerated cartilage tissue in the dogs' joints. Glucosamine is a building block of cartilage tissue and also acts as a catalyst to the formation of new cartilage tissue. In effect, glucosamine helps treat osteoarthritis by assisting in the repair of damaged and degenerated cartilage tissue.

As for chondroitin, chondroitin works by keeping harmful enzymes that cause inflammation away from the joints. It also works in conjunction with glucosamine by attracting liquids that will provide lubrication to the joints.
Glucosamine and chondroitin treat osteoarthritis by dealing with the source of the ailment. Pain relief comes from supplying natural substances needed for healthy joints, not just masking pain.

New advanced formulations of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are becoming popular and now recommended by Vets. Flexicose for Pets is a proven leader in the market place providing safe, effective joint relief in dogs, cats, horses, etc. Flexicose has added several synergistic supplemental ingredients into a complex liquid formula, making dosing your pet as easy as pouring it onto their food. Dosing amounts are based on the weight of your pet. Very affordable, Flexicose Liquid Glucosamine for Dogs is formulated for people as well, for more information about the benefits of glucosamine and chondroitin in treating osteoarthritis, in pets as well as people, please visit http://www.buyflexicose.com