Not only older dogs, but also certain dog breeds can suffer from joint problems.
Unfortunately, it is a fact that these problems sometimes cause our furry friends a lot of pain.
Among other things, this is suitable here Galliprant for the dog.
This guide explains what you need to look out for with this drug and what side effects it can have.
Galliprant for dogs: what it is and what it is used for
Galliprant for dogs is a prescription pain reliever that is used primarily in dogs with joint disorders is used, for example in osteoarthritis.
In addition, it is also used as a pain-relieving drug for joint malpositions, lameness and arthrosis.
The active ingredient that relieves pain is grapiprant. This is a non-steroidal pain reliever.
This docks onto the EP4 receptor in the dog’s body and blocks it.
This receptor, in turn, is responsible for sending pain signals and causing pain.
In addition, galliprant also has an anti-inflammatory effect due to the active ingredient.
Proper use and dosage of galliprant for dogs
The rule of thumb is: The dog gets 2 milligrams of galliprant per kilogram of body weight.
For example, if your dog only weighs 2.5 kilograms, he will receive 5 milligrams of galliprant or ¼ tablet with a strength of 20 milligrams once a day.
Please note that he takes the pill on an empty stomach. The administration should take place about 1 hour before the next meal.
Because we know that dogs aren’t the biggest fans of pills – even when they’re flavored like galliprant – here are two little tips.
If you give your dog the tablet by hand, then keep his mouth closed and scratch his chin until the swallowing reflex is triggered.
Alternatively, you can get a special pill syringe from the vet, or you can grind up the pill, dissolve it in water, and then administer it with a feeding syringe.
Galliprant is available in strengths of 20 milligrams, 60 milligrams, and 100 milligrams.
The dosage of the different strengths can be found in the following table. However, we recommend that you discuss this with your vet again to be on the safe side.
dog’s body weightGalliprant 20 mgGalliprant 60 mgGalliprant 100 mg3.6 to 6.8 kg1x daily ½ tablet––6.9 to 13.6 kilograms1 tablet once a day––13.7 to 20.4 kg–1x daily ½ tablet–20.5 to 34 kg1x daily 3 tablets 1x daily 1 tablet–34.1 to 68 kg1x daily 5 tablets – 1x daily 1 tabletStarting at 68.1kg––2 tablets once a day
IMPORTANT
Please never use any veterinary medication alone and do not increase/reduce the dosage at will, this can be dangerous!
How long does it take for galliprant to work in dogs?
Unfortunately, Galliprant does not work overnight. Usually kick first improvements within 1 week on.
If you cannot see any significant improvement in your dog’s overall condition after 14 days, treatment with Galliprant should be discontinued.
What are the side effects of galliprant in dogs?
Because the active ingredient grapiprant blocks the EP4 receptor, galliprant is said to be better tolerated by dogs than many alternative painkillers.
Nevertheless, side effects and thus negative experiences can also occur with Galliprant, among other things Vomiting, loose stools, and diarrhea loss of appetite.
These side effects should subside after a few days.
If this is not the case – and this also applies to the following side effects – you should consult your veterinarian immediately.
In very rare cases, vomiting of blood/haematemesis and bloody diarrhea/haemorrhagic diarrhea have also been observed in some dogs.
Important
Pregnant or lactating bitches should not be treated with galliprant. Whether a puppy can be treated with it should be clarified with the veterinarian.
Where can I buy galliprant for dogs?
Galliprant for dogs is either direct available from the veterinarian or in an (online) pharmacy.
It is a prescription drug that you can only obtain upon presentation of a prescription.
The price of this drug depends on the strength of the tablets. Depending on the pharmacy, the costs incurred are as follows:
- Galliprant 20 mg/30 tablets: €39.91
- Galliprant 60 mg/30 tablets: €69.85
- Galliprant 100 mg/30 tablets: €111.79
What alternatives are there to galliprant for dogs?
If you want an alternative to galliprant for dogs because your dog cannot tolerate the drug, you can including carprofen grasp.
Additionally, the medications robenoxide, meloxicam, or metacam are considered alternative treatment options if galliprant is not an option for your dog.
Please keep in mind that these medications may cause the same side effects as galliprant and the dosage may also differ.
Conclusion
Galliprant for dogs is a Non-steroidal pain reliever prescribed by the vet for joint disorders is prescribed.
The active ingredient grapiprant blocks an important pain receptor and thus helps to alleviate the pain.
You should discuss the correct dosage with the veterinarian, even if the rule of thumb is that a dog receives 2 milligrams of galliprant per kilogram of body weight once a day.
Despite generally being well tolerated, some dogs may experience vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite.
If you want an alternative to Galliprant, you can choose between Carprofen, Robenoxid and Meloxicam.
Has your dog already had to be treated with Galliprant? We’d love for you to share your experiences and tips with us in the comments!