Galliprant

Galliprant (a brand-name form of grapiprant) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat inflammation of the joints and pain caused by osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a common disease, affecting 1 in 5 canines in the US. Osteoarthritis can set in early in a dog's life and can affect many parts of the body, including the hips, shoulders, legs, spine, and others. As a result, Galliprant is a useful and prevalent drug in veterinary medicine.

While Galliprant is generally safe to give to your dog, complications can arise due to overdosing, allergic reactions, and drug interactions. Read on to find out more about the effects of Galliprant for dogs.

Dosage

Galliprant comes in 20 mg, 60 mg, and 100 mg tablets. While these tablets are available, they are not an indication of correct dosages. You should always consult your vet and follow their instructions on how much Galliprant to give your dog. 

Galliprant is always taken orally in tablet form. You can give your dog Galliprant with or without food. It is recommended you give your dog Galliprant without food, as your dog will have a better chance of absorbing the whole tablet. Galliprant can upset a dog's stomach. If you find your dog is sick after taking Galliprant, give them the pill with food, or contact your vet for advice. 

Efficacy

NSAIDs work by targeting what is known as prostaglandins, which are produced at the site of damaged or infected body tissue and serve many purposes, including causing pain. Many basic NSAIDs can't differentiate between different prostaglandins and suppress many prostaglandins that serve positive functions like regulating blood flow to the kidneys or creating blood clots. 

Galliprant is a sophisticated NSAID as it doesn't repress prostaglandin. Instead, Galliprant interferes with a specific receptor known to cause pain and inflammation. As a result, Galliprant is much more effective than other NSAIDs and has a much lower chance of producing adverse side effects on the kidney, stomach, and intestines. Galliprant is a fast-acting drug, and you should see an improvement in your dog mobility within a couple of hours. Galliprant is a relatively long-lasting medication and can last for a few days.

Side effects

Common side effects associated with Galliprant include:

• Vomiting

• Constipation

• Diarrhea 

• Tiredness

• Discoloration of the stool

• Low blood protein content

While many of these side effects are relatively normal, if you find any of these side effects excessive or are worried about your dog's condition, contact your vet as soon as possible. 

Considerations

Drug interactions

You should let your vet know if your dog is currently taking any of the following:

• NSAIDs

• corticosteroids (dexamethasone, prednisolone, triamcinolone, aspirin, carprofen, meloxicam, etc.)

• protein-bound drugs

Always let your vet know if your dog is on any other form of medication. Galliprant is not safe to give dogs who are currently taking another NSAID. You should also let your vet know if you are giving your dog any other joint supplements or vitamins, as these may affect treatment. 

Allergic reactions and sensitivity

Dogs can be allergic to NSAIDs. Contact your vet immediately if you notice any allergic reaction after your dog takes Galliprant. Galliprant also uses pork liver as a flavor enhancer, which could cause an allergic reaction in dogs who are allergic to pork. If you're aware that your dog is allergic to pork, let your vet know before your dog starts treatment. You should also use Galliprant with caution if your dog has an allergy to sulfonamide-based medications.

You should consult with your vet if your dog is pregnant, nursing, or currently breeding. Galliprant can also be dangerous for dogs with severe heart disease. You shouldn't administer Galliprant to a dog who weighs less than 8 pounds.

Frequently asked questions

Can humans take Galliprant to treat joint pain and arthritis?

Galliprant is a drug designed specifically for dogs. Under no circumstances should Galliprant be taken by a person. If you are suffering from joint pain or arthritis, contact your doctor.

At what age is it safe for my dog to start taking Galliprant?

Dogs less than 9 months old shouldn’t take Galliprant. Osteoarthritis and joint issues are rare in very young dogs under this age. If you notice your puppy is limping or has reduced mobility, speak to your vet to discuss treatment options.

What should I do if I forget to give my dog a dose of Galliprant?

Give your dog their next dose of Galliprant as soon as you can. If you've left it longer than 2 hours or your dog is due their next dose, skip the one you missed. Do not double up on dosages of Galliprant as this could cause an overdose or severe side effects.