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Owner Would Like Human Version of Dog’s Medicine

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.

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About the Author
Terry Graedon, PhD, is a medical anthropologist and co-host of The People’s Pharmacy radio show, co-author of The People’s Pharmacy syndicated newspaper columns and numerous books, and co-founder of The People’s Pharmacy website. Terry taught in the Duke University School of Nursing and was an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of Anthropology. She is a Fellow of the Society of Applied Anthropology. Terry is one of the country's leading authorities on the science behind folk remedies..
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