Why has my veterinarian prescribed aspirin for my dog?
Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent used to treat mild to moderate pain, to reduce inflammation and to reduce fever. It should not be given to cats.
How do I give aspirin to my dog?
- Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinarian. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
- Give this medication after meals or with food. Have water available for your dog.
- If the medicine is a liquid, measure the dose with reasonable care.
- Try to give this medication at about the same time each day.DO NOT give the pet more medicine than directed and do not give more often than directed.
- Try not to miss giving any doses.
What do I do if I miss giving a dose?
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 the pet two doses at once.
How do I store this medicine?
- Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
- Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight.
- Do not use the medicine if it has a strong vinegar-like odor; this means the medicine is breaking down.
- Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.
What are the potential side effects?
- Your pet may experience some stomach upset, which may lead to vomiting and/or loss of appetite. If these symptoms persist, contact your veterinarian.
- Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.
Are there any possible drug interactions?
- Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving to your pet.
- Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
- The following drugs can potentially interact with aspirin: acetazolamide, sodium bicarbonate, methionine, ammonium chloride, ascorbic acid, furosemide, phenobarbital, corticosteroids, phenylbutazone, other non-steroidal agents, heparin, oral anticoagulants, penicillin, sulfonamides, probenecid, sulfinpyrazone, spironolactone, methotrexate, valproic acid, phenytoin, tetracycline, digoxin, aminoglycoside antibiotics, captopril, enalapril, and propranolol.
- Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.
Based on material written by Rita Ozolins, B.Sc., Phm. and modified with permission from Lifelearn Inc.
© Copyright 2005 Lifelearn Inc.
