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Bernadette Dunham, D.V.M., Ph.D., deputy director in the CVM's Office of New Animal Drug Evaluation, explains why some veterinarians may be unable to locate the Client Information Sheet. "They often have the role of veterinarian and the role of pharmacist," she says. Veterinary hospitals get shipments of drugs from the pharmaceutical companies or distributors. Then they may repackage the drug in their hospitals' bottles, often in smaller quantities for distributing to clients. In the repackaging process, the Client Information Sheet, which is often printed on the package insert for the veterinarian, may be tossed out inadvertently.
The FDA, the veterinary community, and the pharmaceutical companies are working together to ensure that NSAIDs are used safely and responsibly and that owners are given the Client Information Sheets.
"The pharmaceutical companies are trying to come up with creative ideas to make it easier for busy veterinarians," says Dunham. Many companies are making the Consumer Information Sheet a tear-off sheet that can be easily separated from the drug labeling.
Some companies also are packaging drugs in smaller quantities with the Consumer Information Sheet sealed inside the package. Therefore, the veterinarian can just attach the hospital label and dosing instructions on the drug container without repackaging the drug and inadvertently discarding the sheet.
Through published journal articles, electronic newsletters, and information posted on their Web sites, both the AVMA and the AAHA are reinforcing the importance of client communication regarding NSAIDs, including handing out the Client Information Sheets, to their veterinary members.
Get the Recommended Tests
NSAIDs approved for use in dogs contain the following information on their labels:
All dogs should undergo a thorough history and physical examination before initiation of NSAID therapy. Appropriate laboratory tests to establish baseline blood values prior to, and periodically during, the use of any NSAID are strongly recommended.
If the veterinarian recommends a blood test before administering an NSAID to a dog, don't decline it, advises Sharkey. "There are good reasons for it." The knowledge gained from these tests could be critical in deciding whether the drug is safe to use in a dog.
Testing is particularly important with long-term NSAID use, such as to treat arthritic pain, says Andrews. "It makes sense to do some preliminary screening blood work and periodic tests to identify any problems and monitor how well the pet is tolerating the drug over time."
Work With Your Veterinarian to Find the Best NSAID
Many NSAID choices are available, and selecting the best NSAID for a particular pet is important, says Sharkey. "Sometimes, the process of finding the best one can mean changing the prescription."
Lynne Heslip of Howell, Mich., tried several NSAIDs on her 4-year-old Irish wolfhound, O.B., who had painful hip dysplasia. "The first NSAID did not work well," she says. "Pain relief seemed to be minimal, and she had vomiting and wasn't interested in eating." Heslip watched her normally outgoing dog seclude herself behind the kitchen table. "She was severely depressed. She didn't want to interact with other animals or with people."
Working with her veterinarian, Heslip stopped the NSAID, waited five days for the drug to clear out of the dog's system, and tried another NSAID. "Within one week, I noticed a drastic change for the better," says Heslip. "She was much more animated and happier." O.B. was on NSAIDs for about three years until her death. Heslip reports that her current 6-year-old Irish wolfhound, Isabella, is on the same NSAID, with very good results.
Bad Reaction? Stop Medication and Call a Veterinarian
If you suspect an adverse reaction to an NSAID, stop administering the drug and contact a veterinarian immediately. Some reactions are mild and go away after stopping the drug. |