Toxin Tuesdays: Human Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Medication

We want to see our pets feel better but call a vet before giving OTC meds (image source)

No one likes to see their pets in pain. We would do just about anything to make them feel better. One important thing to remember before reaching into the medicine cabinet is to check with your veterinarian before giving ANY over the counter medications. This is especially true for pain relievers. Although they can be relatively safe when used as directed in people, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (such as Advil and Aleve) can have devastating effects on our pets.

 

Our pets metabolize medications different from us so always call your vet first (image source)

One reason these drugs can cause such damage is that they are designed to be fast acting in humans. This means once ingested they will be absorbed fairly quickly. They will then start to enter circulation and can cause damage to the kidney and liver along the way. Once ingested, there can be a range of symptoms that develop. The most common signs associated with lower doses include gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting, diarrhea or decreased appetite. As the dose gets higher or treatment is delayed ulcers can begin to develop throughout the stomach and intestines. This can be very painful and also in severe cases can lead to blood loose in the gut and even anemia. At higher doses or if treatment is delayed even longer we can start to see acute renal failure. The kidneys can being to shut down within 12 hours of ingestion of very high doses or out to 5 days with lower doses. This is another good reason to contact your veterinarian if you believe your pet may have gotten into the medication. Or to be up front with your veterinarian if you administered the medication. This way appropriate treatment can be initiated without delay.  Remember that veterinarian pain medications are made to be very appealing so pets can over dose on these medications even though they are designed and safe for pets. Keep all medications in a secure and safe location away from pets and children.

 

Treatment will include hospitalization with fluid therapy (Image Source)

Treatment depends on when ingestion was suspected to have happened. If ingestion occurred within the last hour and there are no current symptoms, veterinarians may elect to induce vomiting to remove any of the tablets that are undigested. If it has been longer or unknown they may elect to draw baseline blood work to evaluate the red blood cells and the kidney and liver values. Many times even if the kidney values are not elevated it may be recommended to begin supportive care. This include hospitalization, intravenous fluids and medications that will help coat and protect the gastrointestinal system.

 

(Image Source)

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) toxicity is a very serious and very common occurrence in our pets. The outcome many times depends on rapid treatment. As treatment is delayed the prognosis tends to become worse. Again ALWAYS speak with your current veterinarian prior to giving ANY over the counter medications.