Dog medications are very much like human drugs. They both come with their share of side effects. Just like certain people are prone to arthritis, canine arthritis is a little more excruciating, after all dogs cannot describe their pain. Canine arthritis is referred to as degenerative joint disease (DJD). Thanks to the veterinarian breakthroughs in doggie medication, there is a wealth of alternatives for the condition. Medicines for DJD serve the following purposes:

>> Control pain
>> Increase mobility
>> Slow down the destructive process in the joints and cartilage repair

Here is a quick overview of canine arthritic medications and how they work:

Adequan(r), approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for degenerative joint disease in dogs, the medication works by interrupting the mediators of the inflammation. Adequan(r), intercepts enzymes that contribute to the damage of cartilage. The chondroprotective medication is given in shot form via an intramuscular injection. Generally, treatments are successful when canine arthritis is treated during the initial stages of the disease. In example, puppies with hip dysplasia experience substantial results when given.

You can also try a simple non prescription dog vitamin from places like Doggyvitamin.com or find a good glucosamin and chondroitin supplement. 

Carprofen (Rimadyl(r)) is substantially stronger than aspirin, this medication has a high safety record. There are very few cases of liver toxicity reported with carprofen.

Etodolac (EtoGesic(r) is reputed for its potent analgesic activity. As long as the recommended dosage is administered, Etodolac poses little risk in the development of stomach ulcers.

Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly prescribed to ease pain and inflammation. Aspirin is a popularly prescribed medication for dogs. Despite its efficacy, aspirin is associated with gastrointestinal side effects.

Since nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs work dissimilar to chondroprotective medications such as Adequan(r), the dog prescriptions can be administered simultaneously for severe cases.

The above information should not replace the medical advice of a veterinarian.