New Form of Canine Pain Medication Approved

by Sherry Morse

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved use of an injectable form of the canine pain medication most commonly prescribed by veterinarians.

Only an oral form of the medication, a drug called Rimadyl that was developed by Pfizer, had previously been approved for use by the FDA.

"The combination of Rimadyl Injectable and oral take-home dosing creates the first complete program for managing canine pain caused by arthritis or surgery," said Pfizer Animal Health Sedation and Pain Management Team Director Michael McFarland, DVM. "Now, veterinarians and pet owners can ensure proper pain management for dogs before, during and after surgery, as well as ongoing pain control for chronic conditions like arthritis."

The oral form of Rimadyl has been in use in the United States for treatment of pain caused by arthritis since 1977. FDA approval for use of the oral form to treat pain resulting from surgery was granted in 2002.

"We now have the ability to provide a highly effective one-two punch against pain," said Bernadine Cruz, DVM, who practices at the Laguna Hills Animal Hospital in California. "That means enhanced quality of life for the dog and added peace of mind for the dog owner."

© 2003 Animal News Center, Inc.

By Animal News
Published: 6/23/2003

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