What is Metacam for Dogs?Metacam (meloxicam) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication used to treat pain and inflammation in dogs. It also has other benefits, including fever reduction. Metacam for Dogs requires a prescription from your veterinarian. It is most often prescribed by veterinarians for dogs as a treatment for osteoarthritis. Metacam is a prescription medication that is FDA
approved for use in dogs.
How does Metacam (meloxicam) work?Metacam works by reducing hormones that cause pain and inflammation in your pet's body. Metacam is used to reduce pain, inflammation and stiffness as a result of acute and chronic musculoskeletal disorders such as osteoarthritis. Metacam may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this guide.
Managing osteoarthritis pain with Metacam
Metacam Oral Suspension is indicated for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs.
When your dog starts METACAM treatment, you will likely notice an increase in your dog's activity level. Once the spark is back, your dog may be more energetic and want to do more physically, just like he used to do. It's important to remember that exercise should be increased slowly in order to rebuild lost muscle mass. Frequent, gentle walks help improve mobility and strength. Talk to your veterinarian about how much activity is best for your dog. Medicam Safety InformationMETACAM Oral Suspension is for use in dogs only. As a class, cyclo-oxygenase inhibitory NSAIDs may be associated with gastrointestinal, kidney, or liver side effects. The most common side effects reported in field studies were vomiting and soft stool/diarrhea. These are usually mild, but may be serious. If side effects occur, pet owners should halt therapy and contact their veterinarian. Pets should be evaluated for pre-existing conditions and currently prescribed medications prior to treatment with METACAM, then monitored regularly while on treatment. Concurrent use with another NSAID, corticosteroid, or nephrotoxic medication should be avoided.
METACAM Oral suspension is for use in dogs only. The safe use of METACAM Oral Suspension in dogs younger than 6 months of age, dogs used for breeding, or in pregnant or lactating dogs has not been evaluated. Please refer to the package insert for complete product information. Tell your veterinarian if your pet has an allergy to aspirin or any other NSAID; an ulcer or bleeding in the stomach; has liver, or kidney disease; congestive heart failure; fluid retention; bleeding disorders; heart disease or high blood pressure. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant or lactating. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is being given aspirin; another NSAID such as etodolac, carprofen or piroxicam; an over the counter cough, cold, allergy or pain medication; furosemide; or warfarin. Talk to your veterinarian before giving your pet any prescription or over the counter medicines. ContraindicationsDogs with known hypersensitivity to meloxicam should not receive Metacam Oral Suspension. Do not use Metacam Oral Suspension in cats. Acute renal failure and death have been associated with the use of meloxicam in cats
Medicam for Dogs Side EffectsMETACAM, like other drugs, may cause some side effects. Serious but rare side effects have been reported in dogs taking NSAIDs. Serious side effects can occur with or without warning and in rare situations result in death.
The most common NSAID-related side effects generally involve the stomach and liver or kidney problems. Look for the following side effects that can indicate your dog may be having a problem with METACAM or may have another medical problem:
It is important to stop therapy and contact your veterinarian immediately if you think your dog has a medical problem or side effect from METACAM therapy. If you have additional questions about possible side effects, talk to your veterinarian. Metacam WarningsNot for use in humans. Keep this and all medications out of reach of children. Consult a physician in case of accidental ingestion by humans. For oral use in dogs only.
As with any NSAID all dogs should undergo a thorough history and physical examination before the initiation of NSAID therapy. Appropriate laboratory testing to establish hematological and serum biochemical baseline data is recommended prior to and periodically during administration. Owner should be advised to observe their dog for signs of potential drug toxicity and be given a client information sheet about Metacam. |