PetMD Editorial
By PetMD Editorial on Jul. 18, 2014

Drug Info

  • Common Name: Etogesic
  • Generics: Etodolac
  • Drug Type: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
  • Used For: Pain and Inflammation associated with osteoarthritis
  • Species: Dogs
  • Administered: Oral
  • How Dispensed: Prescription Only
  • Available Forms: Capsules & Tablets
  • FDA Approved: Yes, for dogs

Uses

Etodolac is used in dogs for pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.

Dosage and Administration

Etodolac should be given according to your veterinarian’s instructions. It is labeled for once daily use and is given by mouth. To help reduce intestinal upset, give Etodolac with food.

Missed Dose?

If a dose of Etodolac is missed, give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give your pet two doses at once.

Possible Side Effects

Etodolac, like other NSAIDs, may cause some side effects. The most common side effects of Etodolac include vomiting and decrease appetite. Other possible side effects are:

  • Change in bowl movements (black, tarry or bloody stools or diarrhea)
  • Change in behavior (increased or decrease activity level, incoordination, seizure, or aggression)
  • Jaundice (yellowing of gums, skin or whites of eyes)
  • Increase water consumption or urination changes (frequency, color, or smell)
  • Skin irritation (redness, scabs, or scratching)
  • Stomach ulcers may occur
  • Unexpected weight loss
  • “Dry eye”

It is important to stop the medication and immediately contact your veterinarian if you think your dog has any medical problems or side effects while taking Etodolac.

Precautions

Etodolac should not be given to dogs that are hypersensitive to NSAIDs.

For geriatric dogs and those that are dehydrated or have pre-existing stomach, intestinal, liver, heart, kidney, blood disorders, or diabetes mellitus, please use with extreme caution and with continued monitoring.

If your dog has bleeding problems (e.g. von Willebrand’s disease or keratoconjuntvitis sicca) do not use Etodolac as it could worsen these conditions.

The safe use of Etodolac has not been evaluated in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs and has not been established in dogs less than 12 months of age.

Storage

Store at a controlled room temperature, store between 59-86°F. Store out of children’s reach.

Drug Interactions

When using Etodolac, please consult your veterinarian with any other medications you are currently giving your pet, including supplements, as interaction could occur. When giving Etodolac avoid using other ulcerogenic drugs such as corticosteroids and NSAIDs, including Carprofen (Rimadyl), Firocoxib (Previcox), Meloxicam (Metacam), Deracoxib (Deramaxx).

Etodolac may also interact with ACE Inhibitors (i.e. enalapril, benazepril), aspirin, cyclosporine, digoxin, diuretics (i.e. furosemide), methotrexate, probenecid, nephrotoxic agents (i.e. amphotericin B, cisplatin), and warfarin as interactions may occur.

Signs of Toxicity/Overdose

Overdose of Etodolac may cause:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Dark or tarry stool
  • Increase urination
  • Increased thirst
  • Pale gums
  • Jaundice
  • Lethargy
  • Fast or heavy breathing
  • Incoordination
  • Seizures
  • Behavior Changes           

If you suspect or know you dog has had an overdose, it could be fatal so please contact your veterinarian, an emergency vet clinic, or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 213-6680 immediately


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