One is the use of medications for inflammation and pain, and the other is surgery, to correct and repair bone or cartilage disorders. This type of therapy is focused on reducing the symptoms. The types most often used for arthritis are prednisone and dexamethasone. Although these drugs were used commonly in the past, they are not used as often today. Their side effects include weight gain, high blood pressure, thinning of the bones and skin, kidney failures, failure of the immune system, atrophy of adrenal gland, osteoporosis, hypertension.
Prolonged use can worsen symptoms of arthritis.
These are inappropriate for dogs, as they can cause gastritis, intestinal bleeding, vomiting, dizziness, headaches and allergic reactions. A new drug is now on the market which is being prescribed by veterinarians. It is called Rimadyl, or Carprofen. Although it is in the same family as ibuprofen, it is being advertised as safe for dogs. There has been some anecdotal information on liver failure, diarrhea and vomiting when dogs use this drug.