Dr James Hunt returns to chat about non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs often get bad press so we asked James to come and clarify some of the facts from the misinformation. He and Hannah explain what NSAIDs are and how they work, adverse events and how to report them and ways to use these drugs as safely as possible. James has worked within research and speciality practice and offers a speciality mobile service in the south-west of the UK. (Published February, 2022 You can find the full video in YouTube https://www.youtube.com/live/GCutKdZl0nw)

More details can be found at http://petpainrelief.co.uk

Dr. James Hunt

is a renowned veterinary surgeon specializing in the management of painful conditions in dogs and cats. With over 25 years of experience, his primary focus has been on pain management. He holds multiple advanced qualifications, including a PhD in pain management, and has published extensively on the subject. Dr. Hunt also founded Pet Pain Relief, a clinical pain referral service in the UK.

Key takehomes

1. Efficacy and Safety of NSAIDs: NSAIDs are highly effective for managing osteoarthritis in dogs, with extensive evidence supporting their use. While they are associated with potential side effects, particularly gastrointestinal (GI) issues, these can be managed through proper dosing, careful monitoring, and selecting the right patient.

2. Importance of Proper Use: NSAIDs should be used at the correct dose and frequency. Owners should be aware of early signs of adverse effects, like decreased appetite, which could indicate GI issues. Consistent, long-term use often leads to better pain management, as intermittent or incorrect dosing reduces their effectiveness.

3. Individual Response Variability: Not all dogs respond to the same NSAID, and it may be necessary to try different NSAIDs to find the most effective one for a particular dog. If no improvement is seen after a few weeks of consistent use, the diagnosis should be re-evaluated.

4. Multimodal Pain Management: NSAIDs are most effective when used as part of a comprehensive pain management plan, which includes weight management, home modifications, and other therapies. This approach can reduce the reliance on NSAIDs over time.

5. Communication with Caregivers: Veterinarians should set clear expectations with pet owners about the outcomes of NSAID therapy. Improvement might not always be in mobility but could be seen in the dog’s mood or engagement. Regular follow-ups are crucial to assess the effectiveness and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.

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Stay tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.