Somnolence after Carprofen (Rimadyl) in dogs

100 reports to the FDA describe somnolence in dogs given Carprofen. That is 0.2% of all reports for this medicine, compared with 0.1% across reports for all dog medicines, so it is reported unusually often with this medicine.

100Reports
1.0%Marked serious
1.0%Recovered
19%Died or euthanised
–Typical onset
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How the animals did

Recovered
1 1.0%
Still unwell when reported
1 1.0%
Died
18 18%
Euthanised
1 1.0%
Not known
79 79%

Problems reported at the same time

Age of the animals

Under 1 year
3
1–3 years
9
4–7 years
9
8–11 years
38
12+ years
36

About this medicine

Carprofen relieves pain and inflammation from arthritis or after surgery.

Products with this ingredient include Rimadyl, Novox, Vetprofen. The FDA hides brand names in its public data, so these reports cover every product with the same active ingredients.

NSAIDs can affect the stomach, liver and kidneys. Vets usually recommend blood tests before and during long-term use.

Questions owners ask

Can Carprofen cause somnolence in dogs?
100 reports link the two, but a report alone does not prove the medicine was the cause: other illnesses, other medicines or coincidence can be involved. Your vet can judge it for your animal.
What should I do?
Don't give another dose until you've spoken to your vet, and keep the packaging so you can tell them the product and dose. Your vet can also report it to the FDA (or you can, through the manufacturer or FDA form 1932a).

Somnolence with similar medicines

All reported side effects of Carprofen in dogs · Medicines most reported with somnolence