Q. I recently started my dog on Rimadyl for his arthritis and he is like a new dog, almost like a puppy. Is there a version of this medication for humans?
A. Rimadyl (carprofen) was prescribed for humans between 1988 and 1998. In the U.S., it is now exclusively approved for dogs.
Rimadyl is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) a bit like celecoxib (Celebrex), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve). Like all NSAIDs, Rimadyl can cause life-threatening ulcers as well as liver and kidney toxicity.
You might get relief from your own joint pain with an NSAID approved for humans. You might also want to try a few home remedies to see if something like a packet of unflavored gelatin in your juice each morning or a tablespoon of Certo or other plant pectin in grape juice can alleviate the soreness and stiffness. You can learn more about these remedies in our Guide to Alternatives for Arthritis.
