What are NSAIDs?
The term "NSAIDs" stands for "non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs." These are medications that are commonly used to treat pain, inflammation, and high temperatures. They are critical in giving pain-relieving joint carefor dogs suffering from osteoarthritis.
Topical NSAIDs, such as cream, gel, or ointment, are a typical therapeutic choice in joint dog care and may provide appropriate relief from muscle and joint pain and inflammation, as well as discomfort caused by strains or sprains.
How NSAIDs work
NSAIDs alleviate pain and inflammation by influencing chemicals released by the body when cells are injured. An enzyme called cyclooxygenase, or COX, is triggered whenever a cell in the body is injured. It is essential to state here that enzymes are proteins produced by the body for specific important functions. Each enzyme drives a specific reaction, which results in a certain outcome.
COX, for example, is an enzyme found in almost all body tissues, including the digestive tract and kidneys. When cells are injured, this enzyme encourages the production of various chemicals, including prostaglandins.
Prostaglandins are hormone-like compounds found in the body that contribute to inflammation, discomfort, and fever by increasing body temperature and dilating blood vessels, resulting in redness and swelling where they are produced. While these compounds cause pain and inflammation, they also have a number of beneficial effects, including the following:
- Protection of the stomach and intestinal linings.
- Helping to maintain blood flow to the kidneys.
- Supporting the functioning of platelets, which are found in the blood of all mammals and help with blood clotting.
Many NSAIDs function by inhibiting COX, thus causing fewer prostaglandins to be formed, whereas others work by inhibiting the activity of specific prostaglandins. NSAIDs decrease fever-related discomfort and reduce inflammation and pain in animals by either blocking COX or blocking the activities of specific prostaglandins.
NSAIDs for dogs
Aside from a variety of joint supplements for dogs, the FDA has also approved a number of NSAIDs. FDA-approved NSAIDs for use in joint care for dogs are effective in lowering pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, as well as in regulating pain and inflammation following soft-tissue and orthopedic surgery.
Because osteoarthritis is a long-term (chronic) condition, a dog may be on NSAIDs for a long period. In such cases, it is recommended that the lowest dose of these dog arthritis tablets be used. Before modifying the dosage, dog owners should always contact with their veterinarians, especially if the dosage is being increased.
How NSAIDs help a dog in pain feel better
While a joint supplement for dogs may assist accelerate the creation of new cartilage and protect the cartilage in the joint, NSAIDs help ease any existing pain and inflammation.
A dog’s damaged cells release chemical signals that make the canine’s nerves more sensitive to pain. NSAIDs work by limiting the production of those chemicals, which, in turn, relieve pain and prevent some tissue damage. Once the pain and inflammation are controlled with an NSAID, you will notice your dog become more active, move better, function better, and enjoy life.
NSAIDs or joint supplements for dogs?
When it comes to pain relief and inflammation control in dogs, it is not about choosing either a joint supplement for dogs or NSAIDs. The goal is always to make your dog feel better. All you need to do is to seek the advise of your veterinarian. He or she may advise you to take a joint supplement for dogs in conjunction with NSAIDs.
