Question:

You could try asking this question on the alt.med.veterinary ng. Cathy — "Decades gliding by like Indians, time is cheap."   Paul Simon ("Ren

Question:

Thanks for your replies, I will check into them. Norm

Response:

My sympathies for you and your cat – SCC is a nasty disease.  Sometimes piroxicam is used for pain control in SCC because it *may* have an anticancer effect as it does for transitional cell carcinoma.  Some people are suggesting that metacam (meloxicam) may have a similar anticancer effect as piroxicam with less likelihood of GI ulceration, but as far as I know there have been no definitive studies to demonstrate that yet.  In my experience metacam appears to be an excellent drug for pain relief in cats. Another palliative approach you may want to discuss with your vet could be treatment with corticosteroids (e.g. prednisolone, dexamethasone) which might provide pain control and appetite stimulation.  It is very important to note that metacam and corticosteroids should not be administered at the same time and that metacam has a long half life so should be discontinued for 2-3 days before starting treatment with steroids.  Unfortunately no matter how you treat this disease you will eventually have to decide to euthanize your cat when the quality of life is too poor and the chances of improving his condition is very low.  It is important to recognize when his time has come and not to extend his suffering for your own benefit.  Make the best of his remaining time – spoil him like crazy.  I’m very sorry. J. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My chemo kitty has an incurable oral squamous cell carcinoma. I would think there must be some pain involved, since it’s in her mouth. My vet gave me on off label product called metcam, which is licensed for dogs in N.A. and cats and dogs in Europe. Can anyone suggest any good general pain relievers for cats. I’d like to help her feel better, even if she’s not getting better. tia Norm

Response:

My chemo kitty has an incurable oral squamous cell carcinoma. I would think there must be some pain involved, since it’s in her mouth. My vet gave me on off label product called metcam, which is licensed for dogs in N.A. and cats and dogs in Europe. Can anyone suggest any good general pain relievers for cats. I’d like to help her feel better, even if she’s not getting better. tia Norm

Response:

My chemo kitty has an incurable oral squamous cell carcinoma. I would think there must be some pain involved, since it’s in her mouth. My vet gave me on off label product called metcam, which is licensed for dogs in N.A. and cats and dogs in Europe. Can anyone suggest any good general pain relievers for cats. I’d like to help her feel better, even if she’s not getting better. tia Norm

  Please get nother opinion.   ob. — ****    Odette Brown ** I love Cats    ***** *** La Belle Province ** Quebec ** CANADA *** *** http://www.igs.net/~rathey/odette1.htm ***

Response:

Thanks for your replies, I will check into them. Norm

Response:

My sympathies for you and your cat – SCC is a nasty disease.  Sometimes piroxicam is used for pain control in SCC because it *may* have an anticancer effect as it does for transitional cell carcinoma.  Some people are suggesting that metacam (meloxicam) may have a similar anticancer effect as piroxicam with less likelihood of GI ulceration, but as far as I know there have been no definitive studies to demonstrate that yet.  In my experience metacam appears to be an excellent drug for pain relief in cats. Another palliative approach you may want to discuss with your vet could be treatment with corticosteroids (e.g. prednisolone, dexamethasone) which might provide pain control and appetite stimulation.  It is very important to note that metacam and corticosteroids should not be administered at the same time and that metacam has a long half life so should be discontinued for 2-3 days before starting treatment with steroids.  Unfortunately no matter how you treat this disease you will eventually have to decide to euthanize your cat when the quality of life is too poor and the chances of improving his condition is very low.  It is important to recognize when his time has come and not to extend his suffering for your own benefit.  Make the best of his remaining time – spoil him like crazy.  I’m very sorry. J. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My chemo kitty has an incurable oral squamous cell carcinoma. I would think there must be some pain involved, since it’s in her mouth. My vet gave me on off label product called metcam, which is licensed for dogs in N.A. and cats and dogs in Europe. Can anyone suggest any good general pain relievers for cats. I’d like to help her feel better, even if she’s not getting better. tia Norm

Response:

My chemo kitty has an incurable oral squamous cell carcinoma. I would think there must be some pain involved, since it’s in her mouth. My vet gave me on off label product called metcam, which is licensed for dogs in N.A. and cats and dogs in Europe. Can anyone suggest any good general pain relievers for cats. I’d like to help her feel better, even if she’s not getting better. tia Norm

Response:

My chemo kitty has an incurable oral squamous cell carcinoma. I would think there must be some pain involved, since it’s in her mouth. My vet gave me on off label product called metcam, which is licensed for dogs in N.A. and cats and dogs in Europe. Can anyone suggest any good general pain relievers for cats. I’d like to help her feel better, even if she’s not getting better. tia Norm

  Please get nother opinion.   ob. — ****    Odette Brown ** I love Cats    ***** *** La Belle Province ** Quebec ** CANADA *** *** http://www.igs.net/~rathey/odette1.htm ***

Response:

Thanks for your replies, I will check into them. Norm

Response:

My sympathies for you and your cat – SCC is a nasty disease.  Sometimes piroxicam is used for pain control in SCC because it *may* have an anticancer effect as it does for transitional cell carcinoma.  Some people are suggesting that metacam (meloxicam) may have a similar anticancer effect as piroxicam with less likelihood of GI ulceration, but as far as I know there have been no definitive studies to demonstrate that yet.  In my experience metacam appears to be an excellent drug for pain relief in cats. Another palliative approach you may want to discuss with your vet could be treatment with corticosteroids (e.g. prednisolone, dexamethasone) which might provide pain control and appetite stimulation.  It is very important to note that metacam and corticosteroids should not be administered at the same time and that metacam has a long half life so should be discontinued for 2-3 days before starting treatment with steroids.  Unfortunately no matter how you treat this disease you will eventually have to decide to euthanize your cat when the quality of life is too poor and the chances of improving his condition is very low.  It is important to recognize when his time has come and not to extend his suffering for your own benefit.  Make the best of his remaining time – spoil him like crazy.  I’m very sorry. J. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My chemo kitty has an incurable oral squamous cell carcinoma. I would think there must be some pain involved, since it’s in her mouth. My vet gave me on off label product called metcam, which is licensed for dogs in N.A. and cats and dogs in Europe. Can anyone suggest any good general pain relievers for cats. I’d like to help her feel better, even if she’s not getting better. tia Norm

Response:

My chemo kitty has an incurable oral squamous cell carcinoma. I would think there must be some pain involved, since it’s in her mouth. My vet gave me on off label product called metcam, which is licensed for dogs in N.A. and cats and dogs in Europe. Can anyone suggest any good general pain relievers for cats. I’d like to help her feel better, even if she’s not getting better. tia Norm

Response:

My chemo kitty has an incurable oral squamous cell carcinoma. I would think there must be some pain involved, since it’s in her mouth. My vet gave me on off label product called metcam, which is licensed for dogs in N.A. and cats and dogs in Europe. Can anyone suggest any good general pain relievers for cats. I’d like to help her feel better, even if she’s not getting better. tia Norm

  Please get nother opinion.   ob. — ****    Odette Brown ** I love Cats    ***** *** La Belle Province ** Quebec ** CANADA *** *** http://www.igs.net/~rathey/odette1.htm ***

Response:

Question:

Oh…..BIG ANNOUNCEMENT

<snip It took fourteen months to taper off the damn Prednisone, but last week I finally took my last dose!

YAY!  Good for you, Ava!  I know that is a tough battle.  If sometime in the future you have to go back on it, don’t feel like a failure.  It happens to the best of us. For now, I hope you’ll continue to do well on your current combination. About the Relafen, I did great on it too for about 4 years.  Then my body just decided I couldn’t get away with it any more.  I stopped it, gave myself a vacation from it, and restarted it 4 times before I gave up. I’m now on Vioxx and even that is bothering my stomach sometimes. Now on a vacation from that to see if it helps. Best regards,

Response:

Have you tried the COX 2 drugs for pain? Celebrex, Vioxx and maybe Relafen (ask your doctor) are supposed to be much easier on the digestive system if that is what is causing you problems with the NSAIDS.

Just a small point here, Ava… although the post in general was great, hate to bring it up.  :)   Vioxx and Celebrex are indeed COX-2 specific.  Relafen is not.  It is considered somewhat easier on the stomach than most of the traditional NSAIDs, but it is not COX-2 specific. There is one other, Meloxicam, that is claimed to be COX-2 specific, but has not proven to be truly COX-2 specific in use.  It is also another good one to try if the three above don’t help. There are other COX-2 specific drugs in testing that should be coming on the market soon, but for now, this is all there is along those lines. Another possibility is to add Cytotec (misoprostol)  to your medications, as this is the only drug FDA approved to protect the stomach from the damage of NSAIDs. Following are some links to more detailed information on the above: http://www.arthritis.co.za/   (this is the home page of the website from which the following links were taken.  To explore the site, start with the Index Pages) http://www.arthritis.co.za/nsaid.htm   This is about NSAIDs http://www.arthritis.co.za/cox.html   This is about the difference between COX-1 and COX-2 and specific drugs that target these enzymes http://www.arthritis.co.za/melox.htm   About Meloxicam Best regards,

Response:

ust a small point here, Ava… although the post in general was great, hate to bring it up.  :)   Vioxx and Celebrex are indeed COX-2 specific.  Relafen is not.  It

Yeah, I didn’t word that right. Relafen is easier on the stomach but not a COX-2. Actually, my Rheumatologist and my Gastroentrologist have a big disagreement going on about the Relafen. My Rheum says its better for me in combo with the rest of my stuff and because of my SED rate, etc. and my Gastro guy wants his arthritic patients, especially those like me who have ulcers already and take massive doses of iron for the anemia to only take COX-2 drugs. I’m letting them fight it out. I have also taken Cytotec for years to try and protect the stomach from the NSAIDs. I take Prilosec twice a day too. Oh…..BIG ANNOUNCEMENT for the regulars who know how I’ve struggled with Prednisone and its side effects. It took fourteen months to taper off the damn Prednisone, but last week I finally took my last dose!  I’m already down eight pounds! I have more pain and swelling, but I’m so happy to have that steroid out of my body!   Of course, I’ve had to have Cortisone shots in my knees and back in the last month, but I’m still considering myself to be steroid free! Thanks Andi for pointing out my misinformation on the Relafen. Ava

Response:

I haven’t heard of anyone else with this complaint.  Perhaps it is because I normally would be using NASAIDS at this point in the disease except that I am allergic to them(ASA)!

Hi Sue, I suffered from fatigue when I was on MTX too. I’ve seen the complaint here often. I did want to point out in case anyone misunderstands that NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatories) help with pain caused by inflammation but do nothing to suppress the immune system. They are a completely different kind of drug than MTX. You may or may not need another DMARD(disease modifying anti-rheumatic) instead of MTX. You should check with your Rheumatologist to see if you are a candidate for one of the others so that you can slow down the progression of the PA and disabling affects it causes. Have you tried the COX 2 drugs for pain? Celebrex, Vioxx and maybe Relafen (ask your doctor) are supposed to be much easier on the digestive system if that is what is causing you problems with the NSAIDS. Good luck, Ava

Response:

Sue, I think I wrote to you before, but anyway MTX was a three year nightmare for me.  I was glad to stop it.  Dizzyness, disorientation, headaches, nausia, stomach problems, fatigue, etc.  (I can’t believe the Dermie kept me on it so long.) This was 15 years ago and I still suffer from memory problems, can not process comples information and am easily disoriented around large mirrors.

Response:

Thank you so much for taking to time to post that, MC.  I always start out saying to myself that I’ll just post a few words and end up posting a whole article as I am afraid to forget anything important.  You never know if someone may not see a majority of the many posts on the topic and may therefore miss something reading only one. Best regards,

Response:

I was on MTX for a short time. About 5 months. I had one side effect. Extreme fatigue. Since my PA is only slightly disabling I am able to do quite a bit. However, the fatigue was far more disabling than the disease. The MTX  did help the arthritis but I couldn’t stand the fatigue, I haven’t heard of anyone else with this complaint.  Perhaps it is because I normally would be using NASAIDS at this point in the disease except that I am allergic to them(ASA)! Sue

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hello LadyAndy. I was diagnosed with Psoriasis in July of 2000. I am 53 (next Saturday) and I have been taking MTX since September with excellent results.I agree with all you have suggested. The reason for my note is that I have occasionally read your posts/comments and I have to compliment you for the precise and well articulate ways you deal with the subject. Congratulations MC

Response:

Has anyone here used it, and if so do you have any info about dosage, and side effects

I used MTX about 15 years ago with nothing but grief and no clearing.  I stopped it after 3 years.  In retrospect, I still can’t believe my Dermie kept me on it for so long with no results excrpt side effects.  To this day I find it difficult to process comples information rapidly, have short term memory problems, a poor sense of balance and easily disorientated with mirrors and noise!   It may be unique to me and others have reported excellent results.  I think it depends on the individual chemistry. Good luck and think it out carefully, Irv—in Alabama (and don’t give up – ever!)

Response:

I have P and PA, and have talked to a Derm about using MTX.  I know it has been used to treat Childhood Leukemia with success.  Has anyone here used it, and if so do you have any info about dosage, and side effects? Thanks Chris

Response:

I have P and PA, and have talked to a Derm about using MTX.  I know it has been used to treat Childhood Leukemia with success.  Has anyone here used it, and if so do you have any info about dosage, and side effects?

Hi, Chris… and welcome to the group!  Yes, I have used mtx for my own PA with great success.  I’ve been on it for more than 7 years now.  Although it can begin to lose effectiveness in some years, it does help immensely with both the PA and the Ps. There are however a few precautions.  First, when used to treat PA or Ps, it is given in vastly smaller doses than when used as a chemotherapy drug.  It actually is an immunosuppressant when we use it for our diseases, or when it is used similarly for RA (rheumatoid arthritis).  It works on the fast-growing cells of the body, so you can see how appropriate this would be for Ps.   Among the fast-growing cells of the body are included the lining of the mouth, so that explains the occasional mouth sores that you can get as a side effect, the lining of the gut, which is the reason it can sometimes cause nausea, the hair follicles, which is why you may sometimes see hair thinning, the overproducing skin cells of Ps, as well as the obvious fast-producing cancer cells, like tumors. I don’t want to scare you because many people never get these side effects at all, or only get them in very minor amounts that are easily controlled.  (Folic acid supplements every day help with both hair thinning and nausea; grape seed extract supplements help with hair thinning.)  Usually you never get any side effects at all on the lower doses that you probably will start with; at higher doses that may be necessary in coming years, you may get some more side effects. The important thing to remember about mtx is that it is a very powerful drug and the precautions that come with it must be followed to be completely safe. First and formost, remember to be closely monitored by a physician very familiar with mtx therapy for PA, either a dermatologist with an extensive practice with people with Ps or, better still, a rheumatologist, the arthritis specialist, who will be using mtx in his practice every day. You must have your blood monitored closely and occasional other tests and exams done to make sure you are not having any side effects on the liver.  Your lungs should also be checked and a baseline x-ray taken to make sure you are not developing the RARE side effect of methotrexate pneumonitis of the upper lung. You should NOT be procreating while on mtx, whether you are male or female.  It can cause fetal abnormalities and spontaneous abortion.   You should not drink alcohol while on mtx therapy, nor should you have a history of liver damage or severe drinking or drugs that may have impaired your liver function. The following links will give you more details on mtx therapy: http://www.arthritis.co.za/methotrexate.htm http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/mtx.htm http://www.healthsquare.com/rx/methotre.htm I know it has been used to treat Childhood Leukemia with success.

It is used as a chemotherapy drug to treat many forms of cancer.  I have a friend who has a severe form of brain cancer which was treated with both surgery and IV methotrexate inserted directly into his brain at the location of the tumor by shunt.  However, this bears little relationship to the way we use it for our PA and Ps.  Doses for us are TINY, mere fractions of the doses used by chemotherapy patients. do you have any info about dosage,

The usual method of dosing for us is to first prescribe the smallest potentially-useful dose, then wait up to 8 weeks or so to see if it is working.  This drug acts VERY slowly, so it does take patience at first.   If that first dose (usually about 7.5 mg/wk… it is only given once per week) is not sufficient, then VERY gradually the dose is increased in 2.5 mg increments, each time waiting up to about 8 week to see if there is improvement. We all respond differently, but my own first effective dose was 12 mg/wk, which worked for me for maybe 2 years before it began to lose effectiveness and I had to increase it. Best regards,

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Question:

For years, I took Feldene, (Piroxicam) for osteoarthritis. Suffering from severe stomach pains, I gave it up. The joint pain returned, but the stomach pains subsided. Then I was given Vioxx and Celebrex, both of which didn’t seem to make  much difference. My rheumatologist just gave me some sample pills of Mobic (Meloxicam) which he says has been used in Europe for years and has fewer side effects than Piroxicam. Does anyone on this group have any experience with Mobic for pain relief and gastric distress? Thank you very much.  Alma

Response:

For years, I took Feldene, (Piroxicam) for osteoarthritis. Suffering from severe stomach pains, I gave it up. The joint pain returned, but the stomach pains subsided. Then I was given Vioxx and Celebrex, both of which didn’t seem to make  much difference. My rheumatologist just gave me some sample pills of Mobic (Meloxicam) which he says has been used in Europe for years and has fewer side effects than Piroxicam. Does anyone on this group have any experience with Mobic for pain relief and gastric distress? Thank you very much.  Alma

Hi Alma I tried piroxicam (Feldene) and it just about crippled me with abdominal pain and the runs.  I have been taking meloxicam (Mobic) now since August, once a day 15mg, and it suits me just fine. Jayne

Response:

For years, I took Feldene, (Piroxicam) for osteoarthritis. Suffering from severe stomach pains, I gave it up. The joint pain returned, but the stomach pains subsided. Then I was given Vioxx and Celebrex, both of which didn’t seem to make  much difference. My rheumatologist just gave me some sample pills of Mobic (Meloxicam) which he says has been used in Europe for years and has fewer side effects than Piroxicam. Does anyone on this group have any experience with Mobic for pain relief and gastric distress? Thank you very much.  Alma

I’ve been taking Mobic for about three months and as an anti-inflammatory it has worked better than any of the dozen or so others that I’ve tried. I’ve never had any GI problems with any of them so I can’t help you there. JDShine

Response:

Thank you to all who responded so kindly. I have been on Mobic for 3 days now, 7.5 mg. a day and I am feeling much, much, better. No stomach pain or anything noticeable. I do have a bad cold which I seem unable to shake and wonder if the respiratory side effects of the Mobic may be affecting my ability to fight this cold. But never mind, I’ll  put up with a runny nose for the rest of my life in preference to the soreness and stiffness. That Mobic seems to be doing the trick! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – For years, I took Feldene, (Piroxicam) for osteoarthritis. Suffering from severe stomach pains, I gave it up. The joint pain returned, but the stomach pains subsided. Then I was given Vioxx and Celebrex, both of which didn’t seem to make  much difference. My rheumatologist just gave me some sample pills of Mobic (Meloxicam) which he says has been used in Europe for years and has fewer side effects than Piroxicam. Does anyone on this group have any experience with Mobic for pain relief and gastric distress? Thank you very much.  Alma

Response:

I am on Feldene with very good results. To prevent stomach problems I take also 1 Losec per day. My RD gives me also samples of Celebrex and Mobic. My experience is that they are better for the stomach but they don’t have the same efficacy as Feldene. Wil Belgium http://users.pandora.be/gaetan.michiels1/ – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – For years, I took Feldene, (Piroxicam) for osteoarthritis. Suffering from severe stomach pains, I gave it up. The joint pain returned, but the stomach pains subsided. Then I was given Vioxx and Celebrex, both of which didn’t seem to make  much difference. My rheumatologist just gave me some sample pills of Mobic (Meloxicam) which he says has been used in Europe for years and has fewer side effects than Piroxicam. Does anyone on this group have any experience with Mobic for pain relief and gastric distress? Thank you very much.  Alma Hi Alma I tried piroxicam (Feldene) and it just about crippled me with abdominal pain and the runs.  I have been taking meloxicam (Mobic) now since August, once a day 15mg, and it suits me just fine. Jayne

Response:

Question:

Can anyone tell me whether Mobic/meloxicam has a sulpha base or not?  I can’t seem to find a pharmacological website that will tell me.  Thanks.  I’ve been on a marvelous experimental coxib (valdecoxib) for 9 months but have to go off it in Nov because it’s not FDA approved.  I’ve failed on Celebrex and Vioxx so was hoping to go on Mobic until the new drug is approved (probably 2 years from now).  I’m allergic to sulpha drugs.

Response:

I can’t find any indication that a sulfa allergy is a contraindication. If it was in a sulfa base, this would be listed as a contraindication. Your pharmacist should be able to tell you for sure. However, you should know that Mobic is not a true Cox-2 selective inhibitor, as are Celebrex and Vioxx.  While it inhibits Cox-2 at a roughly 3:1 ratio with Cox-1, at therapeutic doses it dose inhibit Cox-1.  Therefore, GI side-affects common to all traditional NSAIDs can be expected. I hope that helps. Walt Hanks – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Can anyone tell me whether Mobic/meloxicam has a sulpha base or not?  I can’t seem to find a pharmacological website that will tell me.  Thanks.  I’ve been on a marvelous experimental coxib (valdecoxib) for 9 months but have to go off it in Nov because it’s not FDA approved.  I’ve failed on Celebrex and Vioxx so was hoping to go on Mobic until the new drug is approved (probably 2 years from now).  I’m allergic to sulpha drugs.

Response:

Can anyone tell me whether Mobic/meloxicam has a sulpha base or not?  I can’t seem to find a pharmacological website that will tell me.  Thanks.  I’ve been on a marvelous experimental coxib (valdecoxib) for 9 months but have to go off it in Nov because it’s not FDA approved.  I’ve failed on Celebrex and Vioxx so was hoping to go on Mobic until the new drug is approved (probably 2 years from now).  I’m allergic to sulpha drugs.

The Chemical Composition of Mobic (meloxicam) is C(14) H(13) N(3) O(4) S(2). I am not a chemist so I cannot tell you if the ‘S(2)’ is sufficient to constitute a sulfa base or not. Maybe one of our professionals can tell more. I’ll post a schematic of the chemical make JDShine

Response:

Can anyone tell me whether Mobic/meloxicam has a sulpha base or not?  I can’t seem to find a pharmacological website that will tell me.  Thanks.  I’ve been on a marvelous experimental coxib (valdecoxib) for 9 months but have to go off it in Nov because it’s not FDA approved.  I’ve failed on Celebrex and Vioxx so was hoping to go on Mobic until the new drug is approved (probably 2 years from now).  I’m allergic to sulpha drugs.

Hi I’ve been taking it for a few months now and I’m allergic to sulfa drugs – from memory I think my GP checked this out for me. JayneB

Response:

No, mobic does not have sulfa base.  I am also allergic to sulfa drugs.  I have been on Mobic for a couple of months now, and it has been a blessing. I did get small mouth ulcers, but I take Llysine three times a day(500mg) and that takes care of them.  Good luck. debbie m.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Can anyone tell me whether Mobic/meloxicam has a sulpha base or not?  I can’t seem to find a pharmacological website that will tell me.  Thanks.  I’ve been on a marvelous experimental coxib (valdecoxib) for 9 months but have to go off it in Nov because it’s not FDA approved.  I’ve failed on Celebrex and Vioxx so was hoping to go on Mobic until the new drug is approved (probably 2 years from now).  I’m allergic to sulpha drugs.

Response:

The Chemical Composition of Mobic (meloxicam) is C(14) H(13) N(3) O(4) S(2). I am not a chemist so I cannot tell you if the ‘S(2)’ is sufficient to constitute a sulfa base or not. Maybe one of our professionals can tell more. I’ll post a schematic of the chemical make

Good grief JD its after 1:00 am & i’m up because I can’t sleep because I hurt & it has been over 15 years since I took Med Chem. lol  I don’t think Mobic would cause an allergic reaction  because a sulfa drug allergy but  I know that Celebrex can. Most pharmacists  hated Med Chem classes in school lots of memory work for all the structures & only 1 question every 15 years or so <BG Belinda I’ll look it up tomorrow or later today

Response:

Debbie is correct & wins all the free Taco Bell hot sauce packets that I have stashed away. Does anyone beside me keep stuff like that? Belinda

Response:

Debbie is correct & wins all the free Taco Bell hot sauce packets that I have stashed away. Does anyone beside me keep stuff like that?

Yup! I have a bagful of Taco Bell Sauce and Arby Sauce! Never know when you might need it! ~Krissy See my pond: http://members.aol.com/KrissyJo/ponds.html Akron, Ohio http://arthritisinsight.com Knowledge is power…support is essential.

Response:

lolol, yeppers I do! In the fridge I have a nice little plastic container to put them all in, let’s see there’s ketchup, mayo, taco sauce, mustard, honey, horsey sauce, special? sauce, jelly. And can’t leave out the container in the cabinet, it’s full of hubby’s stash of pkts of special cheeses and hot sprinkles,lol, guess that tells what he likes to order out.         Blondie — Friendship is not created by what we give, but more by what we share, it makes a whole world of things easier to bear ~ unknown

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Question:

Thanks JayneB.  I tried it twice.  First time the next day I had cramps the whole day.  Didn’t know if that was the cause so stopped for 2 wks and tried again and had the runs following day.  Will wait a few days and try again. Mobic seemed to take the edge off the pain.  We shall see what happens.  Thanks again

Response:

Thanks debbie m.  I hope mobic will help.  First time I took it, next day had the cramps all day.  Stayed off it for 2 wks then took it and had the runs the next day.  Will wait again and try.  It did seem to take the edge off the pain after a few hrs.  We shall see.  Thanks again.

Response:

Thanks Chris for the mobic reply.  I was on Vioxx which I felt it was helping also but I came down with bronchitis which is a side effect.  But just in case I waited about 2 months and tried again and sure enough got an upper respiratory infection so that’s why the doc wanted me to try Mobic because I do not want Enbrel shots.  Thanks again.

Response:

The BIG problem with Vioxx is that it has one BIG problem the carrier or flitter what ever you like to call it which protects the guts, Called latase (modifed and much stronger lactose found in milk) if you have had or have any sort of IDB ie chrons or colitus you can’t take beacuse nearly every one who has had IBD becouse lactose intolerant to some degree I can drink around a pint or milk safely after having UC and I cant take Vioxx because I get inflamation of my Ileo-Anal pouch (giving me system very simular to UC) I have heard of even more seriouse side effects (halsonations). Lots of Rhomtologist are going of Voixx and I think Celebrex as well for this reason, I went to a joint constantive meating a few weeks ago and mentioned that could not take Vioxx and why and many off them said that paitient who had IBD had bad side effects and they did know the reason but when I mentioned the Lactase they all "Oh yeah, that woulod do it), so at least some people might the spared what I went trough it. Chris

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Has anyone tried this supposedly new medicine but has been used in Europe for years??? Hi Helen I tried Mobic for a year a few years back – after having bad stomach problems with Naproxen. Although it worked and it didn’t hit my stomach, I don’t think it provided as much pain relief as the Naproxen and certainly not as much as the Vioxx I am on at the moment. Vioxx is supposed to be even better for the stomach than Mobic and it also it taken as one tablet per day. Best wishes, Chris R.

Response:

Helen I tried to post a message on this topic earlier, but it did not go through, so here goes – again. I have been on Mobic (Meloxicam) for nearly four years with no problems whatsoever – I think.  I may have a minor problem with my eyes because of it, but will find out on the 17th.  What happens is, when I go to the opticians the pressure in my eyes is high and when I go to the eye specialist it is okay.  My GP thinks that what may be causing it is the Mobic puts the pressure up a couple of hours after taking it, but just for a short while, which shouldn’t be a problem. Will report what the hospital think when I have a whole day of having it checked (every two hours).  It is so nice only having to take it once a day, I would hate to have to change meds.! Regards Hildagh Has anyone tried this supposedly new medicine but has been used in Europe for years???

Before you buy.

Response:

Has anyone tried this supposedly new medicine but has been used in Europe for years???

Response:

Has anyone tried this supposedly new medicine but has been used in Europe for years???

Hi Helen I live in the UK and I’ve been taking it for about 4 weeks now.  I was previously on Naproxen and I find the Mobic works better and I only have to take it once a day.  I take it at night and after food (the pharmacist stressed this).  It doesn’t upset my stomach like Diclofenac (Voltarol) and Piroxicam (Feldene) did.  For me it works better than the Naproxen. jayneB

Response:

Helen, I have been on this for about a month and it is the first relief I have had in a very long time without a lot of side effects.  I did start having mouth ulcers, but I began taking Llysine 500mg., three times a day and that has taken care of it.  I have tried Vioxx(too many side effects) and I can’t take Celebrex because I am allergic to sulfa drugs.  Mobic has been a blessing to me! debbie m. — www.angelfire.com/ga2/angels1/

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Has anyone tried this supposedly new medicine but has been used in Europe for years???

Response:

Has anyone tried this supposedly new medicine but has been used in Europe for years???

Hi Helen I tried Mobic for a year a few years back – after having bad stomach problems with Naproxen. Although it worked and it didn’t hit my stomach, I don’t think it provided as much pain relief as the Naproxen and certainly not as much as the Vioxx I am on at the moment. Vioxx is supposed to be even better for the stomach than Mobic and it also it taken as one tablet per day. Best wishes, Chris R.

Response:

Question:

I do not believe that any one NSAID is better than the rest for every one, you just have to find the one that does the most for you while doing the least harm. Some OA sufferers get along with plain old everyday aspirin. Good luck, give them both a chance but pick the one that your doctor has the most free samples of to try first. JDShine

Thank you verymuch for your information and comments. tebear

Response:

Thanks JD Did y’all know that asprin is also called ASA? belinda

Response:

Did y’all know that asprin is also called ASA?

I think it would be safe to say all us nurses knew it.   And there are a lot of us. Char "Remember, I’m pulling for ya’.  We’re all in this together."  Red Green

Response:

… Did y’all know that asprin is also called ASA? I think it would be safe to say all us nurses knew it.   And there are a lot of us. Char

I don’t know if it is the drugs or  what but it makes me giggle when i think of it. belinda

Response:

Does anyone have any experience with Mobic(Meloxicam) vs Celebrex as an analgesic for OA?? texbear Hi Texbear,   How much protection does your stomach need from the medicine you take????  Celebrex is cox-2 and Mobic is cox-1 which is harder on your insides. harv

Harvey,  Neither drug is a COX 1 nor a COX 2. Celebrex and Vioxx are COX 2 inhibitors.            COX-2 Inhibitors and Rheumatoid Arthritis Some of the preliminary data has been announced in connection with gastrointestinal (GI) testing of the COX-2 inhibitors Vioxx from Merck, and Celebrex from Pharmacia/Pfizer. The trials were done with the hope that the FDA would remove the NSAID GI warnings on the COX-2 labels. As we discuss below it does not appear that the warning will be removed for either of the drugs before the passage of at least 6 months. Merck announced the preliminary results of its gastrointestinal (GI) trial of Vioxx done under the study name of VIGOR in a letter to investigators in late March. The results of the study were publicly released May 24, 2000. The trial was based on comparisons on 8,076 patients with rheumatoid arthritis who were administered 50 mg of Vioxx once daily, or 500 mg of the generic naproxen twice daily. The trial began in January 1999 and ended earlier than expected. Merck submitted the data to the FDA hoping to gain removal of the current NSAID GI warning. Vioxx showed a statistically significant reduction in perforations, ulcerations, obstructions and bleeds vs. naproxen. Vioxx users had 54% fewer painful ulcers, stomach holes and gut bleeding than those taking naproxen. The rate of bad side effects was 4.5% per year in the naproxen patients, compared with 2.1% among the Vioxx users.Vioxx reduced the most severe side effects, including stomach blockages and severe bleeding by 57%. Unexpectedly, Vioxx had a higher rate of cardiovascular side effects (such as thromboembolic events) than naproxen. Because of these results, Merck will allow patients to use low-dose aspirin in future clinical trials for Vioxx as well as when their new generation COX-2 inhibitor, MK-663 is used. The aspirin is used to help prevent formation of blood clots that can cause heart attacks and strokes. In the Pharmacia/Pfizer study, called CLASS, 22 % of the patients took aspirin, 78 % did not, along with the drug Celebrex. The results indicated that Celebrex was not associated with thromboembolic events, even in the patients who did not take the low dose aspirin. The Celebrex did not show superior results for the GI profile than did the NSAID comparators, ibuprofen and diclofenac. Thus further testing will be required on this matter. Vioxx, the trade name for rofecoxib is an inhibitor of cyloxygenase-2 or COX-2, an enzyme in the body believed to be at the root of pain and inflammation. This non-steroid anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) is approved for relief of signs and symptoms of osteo-arthritis, the management of acute pain and for the treatment of dysmenorrhea. It is comparable to other NSAID, but has a narrower range of side effects, especially lower incidence of GI effects. Searle is presently testing Celebrex in people with a form of genetically based colon disease called FAP (familial adenomatous polyposis). The FDA has put this test on a fast track basis meaning that they will announce their decision within 6 months. Scientists have determined an extremely excessive amount of COX-2 in patients with not only colon cancer, but also in patients with pancreatic cancer and head and neck cancers. A key advantages of the new COX-2 inhibitors is that they relieve the pain from arthritis with less risk of causing or irritating ulcers associated with the older anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and suilind ac. Vioxx was launched in the U.S. about 5 months later than Celebrex. It accounted for about $373 in revenue in 1999. Celebrex generated about $1.5 billion in sales in its first year, making it the best selling first year prescription drug. Although these new drugs cost about $750 per year more than generic anti-inflammatory drugs they have been deemed more appropriate for the elderly patients who have a higher risk of ulcers. One of the most difficult problems to evaluate whenever a new drug is introduced deals with the affect the drug may have on other areas of the patients health .A drug may be very good for one purpose and yet it may cause some serious problems in other areas. In our article below we originally examined some of the results of the new COX-2 inhibitors in the battle against arthritis pain. Recently however there are more and more indications that some of the drugs that have been effective in treating Rheumatoid Arthritis may also by effective in preventing colon cancer. The December, 1999 edition of Nature Study looked at the results of a study done by some researchers at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Long Beach, Calif. The study was done on rats who had been administered the older arthritis drug indomethacin and the newer COX-2 inhibitor drugs. It concluded that both slowed the development of new blood vessels in rat cells. By slowing the growth of new blood vessels you can therefore slow the growth of cancerous tumors. One of the negatives that this study showed was that the latest generation of arthritis pain drugs would also slow the ulcer healing process. An article in the New York Times by Gina Kolata on January 18th, 2000 stated that the National Health Institute would oversee tests to see if the COX-2 inhibitors can prevent colon cancer as well as treat Rheumatoid Arthritis. It was determined that the older drugs were more harmful by slowing the development of new blood vessels in rat cells to a greater extent than did the COX-2 inhibitors. We caution you by pointing out that these tests were not performed on humans. In 1991 the New England Journal of Medicine published the results of a landmark study begun in 1983. The conclusion of that study was that people who took 16 or more aspirins a month for at least a year had about 1/2 the risk of death from colon cancer as people who didn’t regularly use aspirin. A study involving 104,217 people in the Tennessee Medicaid program also showed that there were far fewer cases of colon cancer in elderly people who used aspirin regularly to treat their arthritis than amongst those who did not use aspirin regularly. Many of us, including this writer, have taken aspirin for many years as a heart failure preventive. This interesting finding may now also come into play in the fight against rheumatoid arthritis and colon cancer. Scientists at both Merck & Co. and also at the Searle division of Monsanto Co. believe that their new anti-arthritic drugs may also be useful in the fight against colon cancer. Colon cancer killed about 48,000 people last year, which was second only to lung cancer. The F.D.A has now approved Celebrex, a non-steroidal drug to be marketed for treatment of certain polyps, which greatly increases the risk of developing colon and rectal cancer at an early age. The mechanism of action was related to the drug acting as an anti-inflammatory agent. Now the FDA has approved its use for the treatment of a rare genetic disorder that causes intestinal polyps. The condition is called familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). It increases the risk factor for developing colon and rectal cancer. The FDA made it clear that this medication should only be used in addition to current treatments, which usually involve removal of the lower intestine. The study cited for approving Celebrex for use in FAP involved 83 patients and showed that those patients using Celebrex developed 28 percent fewer polyps than those who used a placebo did. In this study, the main side effects of Celebrex were indigestion and diarrhea. The FDA is also requiring Searle to undertake more studies to determine whether reducing polyps was in fact beneficial to patients. Consult your physician for further information on this medication. Both aspirin and these 2 drugs block the action of the natural enzyme referred to as COX-2 that is involved in some manner with inflammations. Many researchers feel that COX-2 enzyme affects the cell growth occurring excessively in cancer. If both aspirin and these 2 drugs can turn off the switch that produces the excess cell growth in colon cancer it may do the same for other cancers. Both these companies and Bayer are presently engaged in extensive testing to see if this preventive action will affect colon cancer. Both Merck and Searle are also presently testing COX-2 inhibitors to see the affect it may have on Alzheimer’s disease. The University of Rochester has announced that it has filed a patent infringement suit against Searle and Pfizer the manufacturer and co-marketers of Celebrex. 17.5 million prescriptions were written for Celebrex last year. Officials of the university stated that the purpose of their suit is to negotiate royalties rather than have the drug removed from the market. The patent was based on the work of Dr. Donald Young a professor of biochemistry and medicine, assisted by Michael K. O’Banion and Virginia D. Winn while at the university. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin, and ibuprofen work by blocking both the COX-1 and COX-2 enzyme. They also have a negative affect because usage can lead to ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding. The cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzyme is involved in pain and inflammation. The COX-1 enzyme is involved in protecting the lining of the stomach from acids. The patent application was filed in 1992. Scientists from 2 other universities were making the same discoveries at just about the same time. They were the University of California, under Dr. Harvey R. Herschman, and Brigham Young University under Professor Daniel L Simmons. Lawyers for the university said they had not started any negotiations with Merck the … read more »

Response:

Does anyone have any experience with Mobic(Meloxicam) vs Celebrex as an analgesic for OA?? texbear

Response:

Does anyone have any experience with Mobic(Meloxicam) vs Celebrex as an analgesic for OA?? texbear

Hi Texbear,   How much protection does your stomach need from the medicine you take????  Celebrex is cox-2 and Mobic is cox-1 which is harder on your insides. harv

Response:

Hi Texbear,   How much protection does your stomach need from the medicine you take????  Celebrex is cox-2 and Mobic is cox-1 which is harder on your insides. harv

Harv-Are you sure you meant to say that.  Cox 2s were developed to NOT be so hard on your tummy as other nsaids. Char "Remember, I’m pulling for ya’.  We’re all in this together."  Red Green

Response:

Sorry Harv.  I didnt read that correctly.   Char "Remember, I’m pulling for ya’.  We’re all in this together."  Red Green

Response:

Hi Texbear,   How much protection does your stomach need from the medicine you take????  Celebrex is cox-2 and Mobic is cox-1 which is harder on your insides. harv Harv-Are you sure you meant to say that.  Cox 2s were developed to NOT be so hard on your tummy as other nsaids. Char

Hi Char,  Yes, I meant what I said. Mobic is a cox-1 and harder on a persons insides.  Celebrex is a cox-2 and developed to be easier on our insides.  The subject line reads Celebrex or Mobic and I asked the sender how much protection their insides needed.  If I have ulcers or acid reflux and had to take a nsaid,  I would try Celebrex or Vioxx. Mobic is more in the same line as naprosyn or indocine. Harv

Response:

LOLOL  Thanks JD.  Meloxicam ended up being a Cox-1 medication.  LOL I must of not said that right.  Made sense to me, aaaah that was the problem.LOL Harv – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anyone have any experience with Mobic(Meloxicam) vs Celebrex as an analgesic for OA?? texbear Hi Texbear,   How much protection does your stomach need from the medicine you take????  Celebrex is cox-2 and Mobic is cox-1 which is harder on your insides. harv Harvey,  Neither drug is a COX 1 nor a COX 2. Celebrex and Vioxx are COX 2 inhibitors.            COX-2 Inhibitors and Rheumatoid Arthritis Some of the preliminary data has been announced in connection with gastrointestinal (GI) testing of the COX-2 inhibitors Vioxx from Merck, and Celebrex from Pharmacia/Pfizer. The trials were done with the hope that the FDA would remove the NSAID GI warnings on the COX-2 labels. As we discuss below it does not appear that the warning will be removed for either of the drugs before the passage of at least 6 months. Merck announced the preliminary results of its gastrointestinal (GI) trial of Vioxx done under the study name of VIGOR in a letter to investigators in late March. The results of the study were publicly released May 24, 2000. The trial was based on comparisons on 8,076 patients with rheumatoid arthritis who were administered 50 mg of Vioxx once daily, or 500 mg of the generic naproxen twice daily. The trial began in January 1999 and ended earlier than expected. Merck submitted the data to the FDA hoping to gain removal of the current NSAID GI warning. Vioxx showed a statistically significant reduction in perforations, ulcerations, obstructions and bleeds vs. naproxen. Vioxx users had 54% fewer painful ulcers, stomach holes and gut bleeding than those taking naproxen. The rate of bad side effects was 4.5% per year in the naproxen patients, compared with 2.1% among the Vioxx users.Vioxx reduced the most severe side effects, including stomach blockages and severe bleeding by 57%. Unexpectedly, Vioxx had a higher rate of cardiovascular side effects (such as thromboembolic events) than naproxen. Because of these results, Merck will allow patients to use low-dose aspirin in future clinical trials for Vioxx as well as when their new generation COX-2 inhibitor, MK-663 is used. The aspirin is used to help prevent formation of blood clots that can cause heart attacks and strokes. In the Pharmacia/Pfizer study, called CLASS, 22 % of the patients took aspirin, 78 % did not, along with the drug Celebrex. The results indicated that Celebrex was not associated with thromboembolic events, even in the patients who did not take the low dose aspirin. The Celebrex did not show superior results for the GI profile than did the NSAID comparators, ibuprofen and diclofenac. Thus further testing will be required on this matter. Vioxx, the trade name for rofecoxib is an inhibitor of cyloxygenase-2 or COX-2, an enzyme in the body believed to be at the root of pain and inflammation. This non-steroid anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) is approved for relief of signs and symptoms of osteo-arthritis, the management of acute pain and for the treatment of dysmenorrhea. It is comparable to other NSAID, but has a narrower range of side effects, especially lower incidence of GI effects. Searle is presently testing Celebrex in people with a form of genetically based colon disease called FAP (familial adenomatous polyposis). The FDA has put this test on a fast track basis meaning that they will announce their decision within 6 months. Scientists have determined an extremely excessive amount of COX-2 in patients with not only colon cancer, but also in patients with pancreatic cancer and head and neck cancers. A key advantages of the new COX-2 inhibitors is that they relieve the pain from arthritis with less risk of causing or irritating ulcers associated with the older anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and suilind ac. Vioxx was launched in the U.S. about 5 months later than Celebrex. It accounted for about $373 in revenue in 1999. Celebrex generated about $1.5 billion in sales in its first year, making it the best selling first year prescription drug. Although these new drugs cost about $750 per year more than generic anti-inflammatory drugs they have been deemed more appropriate for the elderly patients who have a higher risk of ulcers. One of the most difficult problems to evaluate whenever a new drug is introduced deals with the affect the drug may have on other areas of the patients health .A drug may be very good for one purpose and yet it may cause some serious problems in other areas. In our article below we originally examined some of the results of the new COX-2 inhibitors in the battle against arthritis pain. Recently however there are more and more indications that some of the drugs that have been effective in treating Rheumatoid Arthritis may also by effective in preventing colon cancer. The December, 1999 edition of Nature Study looked at the results of a study done by some researchers at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Long Beach, Calif. The study was done on rats who had been administered the older arthritis drug indomethacin and the newer COX-2 inhibitor drugs. It concluded that both slowed the development of new blood vessels in rat cells. By slowing the growth of new blood vessels you can therefore slow the growth of cancerous tumors. One of the negatives that this study showed was that the latest generation of arthritis pain drugs would also slow the ulcer healing process. An article in the New York Times by Gina Kolata on January 18th, 2000 stated that the National Health Institute would oversee tests to see if the COX-2 inhibitors can prevent colon cancer as well as treat Rheumatoid Arthritis. It was determined that the older drugs were more harmful by slowing the development of new blood vessels in rat cells to a greater extent than did the COX-2 inhibitors. We caution you by pointing out that these tests were not performed on humans. In 1991 the New England Journal of Medicine published the results of a landmark study begun in 1983. The conclusion of that study was that people who took 16 or more aspirins a month for at least a year had about 1/2 the risk of death from colon cancer as people who didn’t regularly use aspirin. A study involving 104,217 people in the Tennessee Medicaid program also showed that there were far fewer cases of colon cancer in elderly people who used aspirin regularly to treat their arthritis than amongst those who did not use aspirin regularly. Many of us, including this writer, have taken aspirin for many years as a heart failure preventive. This interesting finding may now also come into play in the fight against rheumatoid arthritis and colon cancer. Scientists at both Merck & Co. and also at the Searle division of Monsanto Co. believe that their new anti-arthritic drugs may also be useful in the fight against colon cancer. Colon cancer killed about 48,000 people last year, which was second only to lung cancer. The F.D.A has now approved Celebrex, a non-steroidal drug to be marketed for treatment of certain polyps, which greatly increases the risk of developing colon and rectal cancer at an early age. The mechanism of action was related to the drug acting as an anti-inflammatory agent. Now the FDA has approved its use for the treatment of a rare genetic disorder that causes intestinal polyps. The condition is called familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). It increases the risk factor for developing colon and rectal cancer. The FDA made it clear that this medication should only be used in addition to current treatments, which usually involve removal of the lower intestine. The study cited for approving Celebrex for use in FAP involved 83 patients and showed that those patients using Celebrex developed 28 percent fewer polyps than those who used a placebo did. In this study, the main side effects of Celebrex were indigestion and diarrhea. The FDA is also requiring Searle to undertake more studies to determine whether reducing polyps was in fact beneficial to patients. Consult your physician for further information on this medication. Both aspirin and these 2 drugs block the action of the natural enzyme referred to as COX-2 that is involved in some manner with inflammations. Many researchers feel that COX-2 enzyme affects the cell growth occurring excessively in cancer. If both aspirin and these 2 drugs can turn off the switch that produces the excess cell growth in colon cancer it may do the same for other cancers. Both these companies and Bayer are presently engaged in extensive testing to see if this preventive action will affect colon cancer. Both Merck and Searle are also presently testing COX-2 inhibitors to see the affect it may have on Alzheimer’s disease. The University of Rochester has announced that it has filed a patent infringement suit against Searle and Pfizer the manufacturer and co-marketers of Celebrex. 17.5 million prescriptions were written for Celebrex last year. Officials of the university stated that the purpose of their suit is to negotiate royalties rather than have the drug removed from the market. The patent was based on the work of Dr. Donald Young a professor of biochemistry and medicine, assisted by Michael K. O’Banion and Virginia D. Winn while at the university. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin, and ibuprofen work by blocking both the COX-1 and COX-2 enzyme. They also have a negative affect because usage can lead to ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding. The

… read more »

Response:

Does anyone have any experience with Mobic(Meloxicam) vs Celebrex as an analgesic for OA?? texbear

I received little or no help from Celebrex, I’ll let you know about Mobic in a week or two. I have never any gastronomic problems with NSAIDs. Neither Celebrex nor it’s cousin Vioxx are touted as being a better NSAID than any other as an anti-inflammatory goes, they are billed as being easier on the stomach in that they inhibit the production of cyclooxygenases-2 (Cox-2) an enzyme believed to be at the root of inflammation while they do not inhibit COX-1 which is involved in protecting the stomach lining from acids. I do not believe that any one NSAID is better than the rest for every one, you just have to find the one that does the most for you while doing the least harm. Some OA sufferers get along with plain old everyday aspirin. Good luck, give them both a chance but pick the one that your doctor has the most free samples of to try first. JDShine

Response:

Question:

Andy, when I was a student and had my first cat (which I had for a total of 18 years – my dear little buddy, how I miss him still) there was a vet clinic that would provide services and treatment for the cost of the medication/shot plus a donation.  I usually donated $5, but there was one time I couldn’t even afford that.  So I paid for the meds and said I would try to make it up next time.  It was a wonderful community service.  The vets who worked there donated their time.  Usually half a day per week each. Do you think if you asked around, there might be such a clinic in your area?  Or some kind of subsidized clinic where the cost wouldn’t be so prohibitive?  And how about asking the vet for larger amounts of the meds when you do go to the vet?   Good luck. Tracy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ?Andy, if this is a chronic problem with your cat, speak to your vet about only ?going to the office to pick up the medication necessary to keep your cat’s ?chronic condition under control.  I did this for my dog after he kept getting Yes, I’ll do that. There’s also an online vet site where one can order meds… I’m not sure of the wisdom of that, on the one hand it does avoid the problem of having to pay for unnecessary exams in order to get meds for a chronic problem but on the other hand it can tempt people to self medicate. I’m tempted to become an advocate for socialised vetrinary care:) It’s not that I’m not willing to make sacrifices… I still don’t know how I’m going to pay for this week’s vet expenses but I didn’t hesitate to go to the vet when it was clear something was very wrong. But I’m a student without a job whose $30,000 in debt due to student loans and with 3 maxed out credit cards and I’m having enough trouble finding money for the meds nevermind having to pay extra for an office visit whenever I need a refill. I’ve found out that the vetropolycin the vet is prescribing Oscar has the precise same ingredients as an over the counter opthamalogical ointment at the pharmacy so next time Oscar has minor eye irritation I’m going to the pharmacy to get the ointment instead of going to the vet. I was hoping I could find over the counter drugs with the same ingredients as Metacam but there I have been unsuccessful. The pharmacist said ibuprofin was the same sort of thing, I checked the ingredients and they were totally different, hence my question. WHich goes to show you you shouldn’t take anyone’s word for anything. I"m grateful for the internet sites out there and I’ve found Max’s House especially valuable but there has to be a better way to get care for animals. I know most vets are caring people but I can’t help thinking that the vetrenary industry as a whole isn’t somewhat exploititive. Andy

Response:

Andy, Good for you.  I’m thrilled that you posted before taking the chance.  As I said, all human medicine should be viewed as being deadly to a cat.  The doses are all wrong and some of the medicine is just , well, deadly.  Too many people post their questions *after* giving their animal the medicine and wonder why it’s so sick. Hugs & Purrs, Rechelle – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ?Thank God you posted first!  NO human medication should be given to a cat ?without a vet’s consult.  Aspirin is deadly to a cat.  Don’t ever take a ?chance in self medicating an animal. Ok, thanks. Don’t worry, I knew that aspirin can be deadly and I wasn’t going to try anything else without advice. I have found an online vet site through which medication can be ordered but I think I’ll wait until my followup and ask my vet whether the medications he’s prescribing currently can be used whenever there’s a flareup and whether there are side effects from prolonged use. Andy

Response:

?Andy, if this is a chronic problem with your cat, speak to your vet about only ?going to the office to pick up the medication necessary to keep your cat’s ?chronic condition under control.  I did this for my dog after he kept getting Yes, I’ll do that. There’s also an online vet site where one can order meds… I’m not sure of the wisdom of that, on the one hand it does avoid the problem of having to pay for unnecessary exams in order to get meds for a chronic problem but on the other hand it can tempt people to self medicate. I’m tempted to become an advocate for socialised vetrinary care:) It’s not that I’m not willing to make sacrifices… I still don’t know how I’m going to pay for this week’s vet expenses but I didn’t hesitate to go to the vet when it was clear something was very wrong. But I’m a student without a job whose $30,000 in debt due to student loans and with 3 maxed out credit cards and I’m having enough trouble finding money for the meds nevermind having to pay extra for an office visit whenever I need a refill. I’ve found out that the vetropolycin the vet is prescribing Oscar has the precise same ingredients as an over the counter opthamalogical ointment at the pharmacy so next time Oscar has minor eye irritation I’m going to the pharmacy to get the ointment instead of going to the vet. I was hoping I could find over the counter drugs with the same ingredients as Metacam but there I have been unsuccessful. The pharmacist said ibuprofin was the same sort of thing, I checked the ingredients and they were totally different, hence my question. WHich goes to show you you shouldn’t take anyone’s word for anything. I"m grateful for the internet sites out there and I’ve found Max’s House especially valuable but there has to be a better way to get care for animals. I know most vets are caring people but I can’t help thinking that the vetrenary industry as a whole isn’t somewhat exploititive. Andy

Response:

? Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the ? liver (eg notihing steroidal). ? ? Andy ?From what I understand, Oscar, even with his liver problems, could probably ?take prednisolone – a relative of sorts of prednisone. (both steroids)  My ?cat w/ chronic hepatitis has been on prednisone (sometimes prednisolone – ?interchangable in her case) – out of necessity – for 3 years; it’s a ?necessary part of her treatment.  I asked my vet about prednisone Vs. ?prednisolone: they have the same net effect as far as treatment/results, but ?if a liver is virtually non-functioning, then prednisolone is permissible – ?it does not put any strain on the liver.  Prednisone is okay as long as the ?liver is functioning at least in a limited way.  Cathy Ok, I’ll ask my doctor about this. Prednisone was on my original estimate sheet but the vet struck it off when he found out that Oscar had liver problems and in our discussion he ruled out steroids completely until very late. In any case the eye seems to be better so hopefully I won’t have to worry about it for awhile and can concentrate on the liver problem. Andy

Response:

?Thank God you posted first!  NO human medication should be given to a cat ?without a vet’s consult.  Aspirin is deadly to a cat.  Don’t ever take a ?chance in self medicating an animal. Ok, thanks. Don’t worry, I knew that aspirin can be deadly and I wasn’t going to try anything else without advice. I have found an online vet site through which medication can be ordered but I think I’ll wait until my followup and ask my vet whether the medications he’s prescribing currently can be used whenever there’s a flareup and whether there are side effects from prolonged use. Andy

Response:

Is ibuprofin safe for cats? I’m loooking for an alternative to the anti-inflammatory Meticam/Meloxicam that I can buy over the counter since my cat has a chronic problem with an injured eye and I can’t afford to go to the vet and pay for an appointment every time his eye gets inflamed. Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the liver (eg notihing steroidal). Andy

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – is NOT safe for animals and should NEVER be administered.  Talk to your vet about baby aspirin for your cat, but DO NOT give it to him/her until you have the vet’s approval and dosage. Is ibuprofin safe for cats? I’m loooking for an alternative to the anti-inflammatory Meticam/Meloxicam that I can buy over the counter since my cat has a chronic problem with an injured eye and I can’t afford to go to the vet and pay for an appointment every time his eye gets inflamed. Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the liver (eg notihing steroidal). Andy

– The poster was asking about ibuprofen (i.e. Advil), not ASA (i.e. Aspirin).  But I agree, human meds should never be given to an animal without veterinary supervision.  Ibuprofen especially – is DEADLY. Marlene You never really learn to swear until you learn to drive. http://members.home.net/sassy34/HomePage.htm

Response:

is NOT safe for animals and should NEVER be administered.  Talk to your vet about baby aspirin for your cat, but DO NOT give it to him/her until you have the vet’s approval and dosage. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Is ibuprofin safe for cats? I’m loooking for an alternative to the anti-inflammatory Meticam/Meloxicam that I can buy over the counter since my cat has a chronic problem with an injured eye and I can’t afford to go to the vet and pay for an appointment every time his eye gets inflamed. Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the liver (eg notihing steroidal). Andy

Response:

IBUPROFEN Clinical signs: Cats: Small doses cause vomiting and gastric ulcers, larger doses can cause kidney failure and death. Treatment If early, induce vomiting, flush and pump the stomach and give activated charcoal. IV fluids, medications to heal gastric ulcers and general supportive care are all needed. IBUPROFEN   (Motrin, Advil Nuprin, Vick’s DayQuil) NONSTEROIDAL ANTI INFLAMMATORY DRUGS (NSAIDS) See also Acetaminophen, Aspirin Sources Many analgesics, antipyrerics, antiinflammatory drugs belong to this class of drug. txamples include indomethacin, piroxicam (Feldene), ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil Nuprin, Vick’s DayQuil), phenylbutazone (Bute, Butazoliclin): naproxen (Naprosyn, Aleve). Mechanism of action NSAIDS inactivate cyclooxygenase and therefore inhibit production of protective prostaglandins of the E-series. Reduced prostaglandin production results in reduced blood flow to the Gi tract, reduced secretion of gastric mucus, and G1 tract ischemia and ulceration (which may perforate). Prostaglandin inhibition also reduces blood flow to the kidneys resulting in renal papillary necrosis and acute renal failure. Newer NSAIDS such as carprofcn are touted to have fewer toxic side effects because of decreased inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis and yet offer effective antiinflammatory action. Clinical signs Abdominal pain, lethargy, anemia, melena, and hematemesis are most commonly seen with G1 irritation and ulceration. if perforation has occurred, clinical signs may include abdominal pain, perhaps a fluid wave, shock, injected sclera, brick-red mucous membranes, and tachycardia. Temperature may be elevated or depressed. Pulses may be bounding or weak and thready. Clinical signs associated with acute renal failure include hyposthenuria or isosthenuria, renal tubular cell casts in the urine sediment, or glucosuria without hyperglycemia. Urine gammaglutamyltransferase erase (GGT) will be elevated. These early signs of acute renal failure will be followed by increasing BUN and creatinine, electrolyte disturbances, and possibly oliguria or more rarely polyuria. Occasionally, increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) may be seen. Signs Abdominal pain Lethargy Anemia Melena, hematochezia Hematemesis Increased BUN and creatinine Hyposthenuria or isosthenuria Renal tubular casts Glucosuria without hyperglycernia Increased ALT and ALP Hypoventilation or apnea in some cases Acid-base disorders (sometimes initial alkalemia with later metabolic acidemia) Signs of peritonitis if perforation Coma, rarely seizures Treatment Treatment involves preventing or correcting GI ulceration, perforation, and acute renal failure. There is no specific antidote for NSAIDs. EMERGENCY TREATMENT Procedures I .    Secure the airway and ventilate as necessary. 2.    Administer supplemental oxygen . 3.    Secure venous access. Treat shock if needed. Collect blood and urine for laboratory testing. Obtain data base including        biochemical profile, electrolytes, venous or arterial blood gases, and urinalysis. 4.    Control seizures if necessary. 5.    Insert a urethral catheter and administer crystalloids to maintain urine output of at least 2 to 3 mL/kg/hour in the dog and 1        to 2 mL/kg/hour in the cat.  Rapid development of oliguria or anuria associated with NSAID overdose dramatically        increases the danger of overhydration. Patients must be monitored closely. Monitor central venous pressure if possible. 6.    Perform serial monitoring of the urine to detect evidence of acute renal failure. IF PERFORATION IS SUSPECTED Confirm with abdominocentesis. Consider diagnostic peritoneal lavage if abdominocentesis fails to confirm yet suspicion is high. Support the patient and perform exploratory surgery to repair perforation. Perform thorough abdominal lavage using large quantities of sterile saline Continue treatment with open abdominal techniques or intermittent abdominal lavage and active drainage. Provide IV broad-spectrum antibiotics. IF RENAL DAMAGE IS SUSPECTED BASED ON URINE ANALYSIS Treat acid-base and electrolyte imbalances: a. Fluid therapy with crystalloids will usually correct the acid-base problems. If severe acidernia is present (pH <7. 1), administer sodium bicarbonate. b. Treat hyperkalemia if present. Continue crystalloids to maintain urine production of at least 2 to 3 mL/kg/hour in the dog and I mL/kg/hour in the cat. Administer furosemide (Lasix) dopamine, or mannitol, or all three, to maintain urine production as above. Monitor CVP, blood pressure, and urine output. Decontaminate Induce emesis if recent ingestion (2 to 4 hours) or if signs are not present. Gastric lavage if signs are present after ingestion . Adminster activated charcoal and a saline cathartic; repeat PRN q4-6h. Administer antidotes or other indicated supportive care. a.     Protect the GI tract: a. Administer sucralfate. b.    Administer misoprostol (Cytotec) at I to 5 mcg/kg q812h PO (dog only) for ulcer prophylaxis. c.    Administer omeprazole at 0.7 mg/kg q24h PO dog only. d.    H 2-receptor antagonists have not been shown to be of benefit as a prophylactic therapy against NSAID-induced G1        ulcers. Enhancement of elimination Call the poison control center for advice concerning the specific NSAID in question. Avoid Gentamycin and other nephrotoxic drugs. References: Engelhardt J, Brown S: Drug-related nephropathies, Part 2: Commonly used drugs, Compend Cont Ed Pract Vet 9(3):281-288, 1987. Kore A: Ibuprofen. In Kirk RW, Bonagura JD, editors: Current veterinary therapy, ed 11, Philadelphia, 1992, Saunders. Murphy M: Toxin exposures in dogs and cats: drugs and household products, JAm VetMed Assoc 205(4):557-560, 1994 http://maxshouse.com/Poisons.html NONSTEROIDAL ANTIINFLAMMATORY DRUGS Ibuprofen,(Motrin, Advil, Nuprin, Vick’s DayQuil), phenylbutazone (Bute, Butazolidin), naproxen (Naprosyn, Aleve), indomethacin, piroxicam (Feldene). Clinical signs Abdominal pain, lethargy, anemia, melena, and hematernesis are most commonly seen with GI irritation and ulceration. If perforation has occurred, clinical signs may include abdominal pain, perhaps a fluid wave, shock, injected sclera, brick-red mucous membranes, and tachycardia. Temperature may be elevated or depressed. Pulses may be bounding or weak andthready. Clinical signs associated with acute renal failure include hyposthenuria or isosthenuria, renal tubular cell casts in the urine sediment, or glucosuria without hyperglycemia. Urine gammaglutamyltransferase (GGT) will be elevated. These early signs of acute renal failure will be followed by increasing BUN and creatinine, electrolyte disturbances, and possibly oliguria or more rarely polyuria. Occasionally, increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) may be seen http://maxshouse.com/FAdrug.html Phil

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Is ibuprofin safe for cats? I’m loooking for an alternative to the anti-inflammatory Meticam/Meloxicam that I can buy over the counter since my cat has a chronic problem with an injured eye and I can’t afford to go to the vet and pay for an appointment every time his eye gets inflamed. Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the liver (eg notihing steroidal). Andy

Response:

Is ibuprofin safe for cats? I’m loooking for an alternative to the anti-inflammatory Meticam/Meloxicam that I can buy over the counter since my cat has a chronic problem with an injured eye and I can’t afford to go to the vet and pay for an appointment every time his eye gets inflamed.

Nope – no ibuprofren, Tylenol, or aspirin.  Aspirin, through a vet, can be given in tiny, controlled amounts, but that’s it – *only* via the vet’s prescription.  Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the liver (eg notihing steroidal). Andy

From what I understand, Oscar, even with his liver problems, could probably take prednisolone – a relative of sorts of prednisone. (both steroids)  My cat w/ chronic hepatitis has been on prednisone (sometimes prednisolone – interchangable in her case) – out of necessity – for 3 years; it’s a necessary part of her treatment.  I asked my vet about prednisone Vs. prednisolone: they have the same net effect as far as treatment/results, but if a liver is virtually non-functioning, then prednisolone is permissible – it does not put any strain on the liver.  Prednisone is okay as long as the liver is functioning at least in a limited way.  Cathy

Response:

Ibuprofen, tylenol, and even aspirin can be deadly for cats.  Please seek the advise of a vet.  Most are willing to do phone consults.  Your vet may also be willing to supply the medicine without seeing your cat every time if he or she is aware that the problem. Please seek the advice of a vet.  Especially since dosages are critical. Gene – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Is ibuprofin safe for cats? I’m loooking for an alternative to the anti-inflammatory Meticam/Meloxicam that I can buy over the counter since my cat has a chronic problem with an injured eye and I can’t afford to go to the vet and pay for an appointment every time his eye gets inflamed. Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the liver (eg notihing steroidal). Andy

Response:

Thank God you posted first!  NO human medication should be given to a cat without a vet’s consult.  Aspirin is deadly to a cat.  Don’t ever take a chance in self medicating an animal. — Bugsy…. "The smallest deed is far greater than the grandest intention." ~Author Unknown~

Is ibuprofin safe for cats? I’m loooking for an alternative to the anti-inflammatory Meticam/Meloxicam that I can buy over the counter since my cat has a chronic problem with an injured eye and I can’t afford to go to the vet and pay for an appointment every time his eye gets inflamed. Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the liver (eg notihing steroidal). Andy

Response:

Andy, when I was a student and had my first cat (which I had for a total of 18 years – my dear little buddy, how I miss him still) there was a vet clinic that would provide services and treatment for the cost of the medication/shot plus a donation.  I usually donated $5, but there was one time I couldn’t even afford that.  So I paid for the meds and said I would try to make it up next time.  It was a wonderful community service.  The vets who worked there donated their time.  Usually half a day per week each. Do you think if you asked around, there might be such a clinic in your area?  Or some kind of subsidized clinic where the cost wouldn’t be so prohibitive?  And how about asking the vet for larger amounts of the meds when you do go to the vet?   Good luck. Tracy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ?Andy, if this is a chronic problem with your cat, speak to your vet about only ?going to the office to pick up the medication necessary to keep your cat’s ?chronic condition under control.  I did this for my dog after he kept getting Yes, I’ll do that. There’s also an online vet site where one can order meds… I’m not sure of the wisdom of that, on the one hand it does avoid the problem of having to pay for unnecessary exams in order to get meds for a chronic problem but on the other hand it can tempt people to self medicate. I’m tempted to become an advocate for socialised vetrinary care:) It’s not that I’m not willing to make sacrifices… I still don’t know how I’m going to pay for this week’s vet expenses but I didn’t hesitate to go to the vet when it was clear something was very wrong. But I’m a student without a job whose $30,000 in debt due to student loans and with 3 maxed out credit cards and I’m having enough trouble finding money for the meds nevermind having to pay extra for an office visit whenever I need a refill. I’ve found out that the vetropolycin the vet is prescribing Oscar has the precise same ingredients as an over the counter opthamalogical ointment at the pharmacy so next time Oscar has minor eye irritation I’m going to the pharmacy to get the ointment instead of going to the vet. I was hoping I could find over the counter drugs with the same ingredients as Metacam but there I have been unsuccessful. The pharmacist said ibuprofin was the same sort of thing, I checked the ingredients and they were totally different, hence my question. WHich goes to show you you shouldn’t take anyone’s word for anything. I"m grateful for the internet sites out there and I’ve found Max’s House especially valuable but there has to be a better way to get care for animals. I know most vets are caring people but I can’t help thinking that the vetrenary industry as a whole isn’t somewhat exploititive. Andy

Response:

Andy, Good for you.  I’m thrilled that you posted before taking the chance.  As I said, all human medicine should be viewed as being deadly to a cat.  The doses are all wrong and some of the medicine is just , well, deadly.  Too many people post their questions *after* giving their animal the medicine and wonder why it’s so sick. Hugs & Purrs, Rechelle – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ?Thank God you posted first!  NO human medication should be given to a cat ?without a vet’s consult.  Aspirin is deadly to a cat.  Don’t ever take a ?chance in self medicating an animal. Ok, thanks. Don’t worry, I knew that aspirin can be deadly and I wasn’t going to try anything else without advice. I have found an online vet site through which medication can be ordered but I think I’ll wait until my followup and ask my vet whether the medications he’s prescribing currently can be used whenever there’s a flareup and whether there are side effects from prolonged use. Andy

Response:

?Andy, if this is a chronic problem with your cat, speak to your vet about only ?going to the office to pick up the medication necessary to keep your cat’s ?chronic condition under control.  I did this for my dog after he kept getting Yes, I’ll do that. There’s also an online vet site where one can order meds… I’m not sure of the wisdom of that, on the one hand it does avoid the problem of having to pay for unnecessary exams in order to get meds for a chronic problem but on the other hand it can tempt people to self medicate. I’m tempted to become an advocate for socialised vetrinary care:) It’s not that I’m not willing to make sacrifices… I still don’t know how I’m going to pay for this week’s vet expenses but I didn’t hesitate to go to the vet when it was clear something was very wrong. But I’m a student without a job whose $30,000 in debt due to student loans and with 3 maxed out credit cards and I’m having enough trouble finding money for the meds nevermind having to pay extra for an office visit whenever I need a refill. I’ve found out that the vetropolycin the vet is prescribing Oscar has the precise same ingredients as an over the counter opthamalogical ointment at the pharmacy so next time Oscar has minor eye irritation I’m going to the pharmacy to get the ointment instead of going to the vet. I was hoping I could find over the counter drugs with the same ingredients as Metacam but there I have been unsuccessful. The pharmacist said ibuprofin was the same sort of thing, I checked the ingredients and they were totally different, hence my question. WHich goes to show you you shouldn’t take anyone’s word for anything. I"m grateful for the internet sites out there and I’ve found Max’s House especially valuable but there has to be a better way to get care for animals. I know most vets are caring people but I can’t help thinking that the vetrenary industry as a whole isn’t somewhat exploititive. Andy

Response:

? Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the ? liver (eg notihing steroidal). ? ? Andy ?From what I understand, Oscar, even with his liver problems, could probably ?take prednisolone – a relative of sorts of prednisone. (both steroids)  My ?cat w/ chronic hepatitis has been on prednisone (sometimes prednisolone – ?interchangable in her case) – out of necessity – for 3 years; it’s a ?necessary part of her treatment.  I asked my vet about prednisone Vs. ?prednisolone: they have the same net effect as far as treatment/results, but ?if a liver is virtually non-functioning, then prednisolone is permissible – ?it does not put any strain on the liver.  Prednisone is okay as long as the ?liver is functioning at least in a limited way.  Cathy Ok, I’ll ask my doctor about this. Prednisone was on my original estimate sheet but the vet struck it off when he found out that Oscar had liver problems and in our discussion he ruled out steroids completely until very late. In any case the eye seems to be better so hopefully I won’t have to worry about it for awhile and can concentrate on the liver problem. Andy

Response:

?Thank God you posted first!  NO human medication should be given to a cat ?without a vet’s consult.  Aspirin is deadly to a cat.  Don’t ever take a ?chance in self medicating an animal. Ok, thanks. Don’t worry, I knew that aspirin can be deadly and I wasn’t going to try anything else without advice. I have found an online vet site through which medication can be ordered but I think I’ll wait until my followup and ask my vet whether the medications he’s prescribing currently can be used whenever there’s a flareup and whether there are side effects from prolonged use. Andy

Response:

Is ibuprofin safe for cats? I’m loooking for an alternative to the anti-inflammatory Meticam/Meloxicam that I can buy over the counter since my cat has a chronic problem with an injured eye and I can’t afford to go to the vet and pay for an appointment every time his eye gets inflamed. Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the liver (eg notihing steroidal). Andy

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – is NOT safe for animals and should NEVER be administered.  Talk to your vet about baby aspirin for your cat, but DO NOT give it to him/her until you have the vet’s approval and dosage. Is ibuprofin safe for cats? I’m loooking for an alternative to the anti-inflammatory Meticam/Meloxicam that I can buy over the counter since my cat has a chronic problem with an injured eye and I can’t afford to go to the vet and pay for an appointment every time his eye gets inflamed. Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the liver (eg notihing steroidal). Andy

– The poster was asking about ibuprofen (i.e. Advil), not ASA (i.e. Aspirin).  But I agree, human meds should never be given to an animal without veterinary supervision.  Ibuprofen especially – is DEADLY. Marlene You never really learn to swear until you learn to drive. http://members.home.net/sassy34/HomePage.htm

Response:

is NOT safe for animals and should NEVER be administered.  Talk to your vet about baby aspirin for your cat, but DO NOT give it to him/her until you have the vet’s approval and dosage. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Is ibuprofin safe for cats? I’m loooking for an alternative to the anti-inflammatory Meticam/Meloxicam that I can buy over the counter since my cat has a chronic problem with an injured eye and I can’t afford to go to the vet and pay for an appointment every time his eye gets inflamed. Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the liver (eg notihing steroidal). Andy

Response:

IBUPROFEN Clinical signs: Cats: Small doses cause vomiting and gastric ulcers, larger doses can cause kidney failure and death. Treatment If early, induce vomiting, flush and pump the stomach and give activated charcoal. IV fluids, medications to heal gastric ulcers and general supportive care are all needed. IBUPROFEN   (Motrin, Advil Nuprin, Vick’s DayQuil) NONSTEROIDAL ANTI INFLAMMATORY DRUGS (NSAIDS) See also Acetaminophen, Aspirin Sources Many analgesics, antipyrerics, antiinflammatory drugs belong to this class of drug. txamples include indomethacin, piroxicam (Feldene), ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil Nuprin, Vick’s DayQuil), phenylbutazone (Bute, Butazoliclin): naproxen (Naprosyn, Aleve). Mechanism of action NSAIDS inactivate cyclooxygenase and therefore inhibit production of protective prostaglandins of the E-series. Reduced prostaglandin production results in reduced blood flow to the Gi tract, reduced secretion of gastric mucus, and G1 tract ischemia and ulceration (which may perforate). Prostaglandin inhibition also reduces blood flow to the kidneys resulting in renal papillary necrosis and acute renal failure. Newer NSAIDS such as carprofcn are touted to have fewer toxic side effects because of decreased inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis and yet offer effective antiinflammatory action. Clinical signs Abdominal pain, lethargy, anemia, melena, and hematemesis are most commonly seen with G1 irritation and ulceration. if perforation has occurred, clinical signs may include abdominal pain, perhaps a fluid wave, shock, injected sclera, brick-red mucous membranes, and tachycardia. Temperature may be elevated or depressed. Pulses may be bounding or weak and thready. Clinical signs associated with acute renal failure include hyposthenuria or isosthenuria, renal tubular cell casts in the urine sediment, or glucosuria without hyperglycemia. Urine gammaglutamyltransferase erase (GGT) will be elevated. These early signs of acute renal failure will be followed by increasing BUN and creatinine, electrolyte disturbances, and possibly oliguria or more rarely polyuria. Occasionally, increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) may be seen. Signs Abdominal pain Lethargy Anemia Melena, hematochezia Hematemesis Increased BUN and creatinine Hyposthenuria or isosthenuria Renal tubular casts Glucosuria without hyperglycernia Increased ALT and ALP Hypoventilation or apnea in some cases Acid-base disorders (sometimes initial alkalemia with later metabolic acidemia) Signs of peritonitis if perforation Coma, rarely seizures Treatment Treatment involves preventing or correcting GI ulceration, perforation, and acute renal failure. There is no specific antidote for NSAIDs. EMERGENCY TREATMENT Procedures I .    Secure the airway and ventilate as necessary. 2.    Administer supplemental oxygen . 3.    Secure venous access. Treat shock if needed. Collect blood and urine for laboratory testing. Obtain data base including        biochemical profile, electrolytes, venous or arterial blood gases, and urinalysis. 4.    Control seizures if necessary. 5.    Insert a urethral catheter and administer crystalloids to maintain urine output of at least 2 to 3 mL/kg/hour in the dog and 1        to 2 mL/kg/hour in the cat.  Rapid development of oliguria or anuria associated with NSAID overdose dramatically        increases the danger of overhydration. Patients must be monitored closely. Monitor central venous pressure if possible. 6.    Perform serial monitoring of the urine to detect evidence of acute renal failure. IF PERFORATION IS SUSPECTED Confirm with abdominocentesis. Consider diagnostic peritoneal lavage if abdominocentesis fails to confirm yet suspicion is high. Support the patient and perform exploratory surgery to repair perforation. Perform thorough abdominal lavage using large quantities of sterile saline Continue treatment with open abdominal techniques or intermittent abdominal lavage and active drainage. Provide IV broad-spectrum antibiotics. IF RENAL DAMAGE IS SUSPECTED BASED ON URINE ANALYSIS Treat acid-base and electrolyte imbalances: a. Fluid therapy with crystalloids will usually correct the acid-base problems. If severe acidernia is present (pH <7. 1), administer sodium bicarbonate. b. Treat hyperkalemia if present. Continue crystalloids to maintain urine production of at least 2 to 3 mL/kg/hour in the dog and I mL/kg/hour in the cat. Administer furosemide (Lasix) dopamine, or mannitol, or all three, to maintain urine production as above. Monitor CVP, blood pressure, and urine output. Decontaminate Induce emesis if recent ingestion (2 to 4 hours) or if signs are not present. Gastric lavage if signs are present after ingestion . Adminster activated charcoal and a saline cathartic; repeat PRN q4-6h. Administer antidotes or other indicated supportive care. a.     Protect the GI tract: a. Administer sucralfate. b.    Administer misoprostol (Cytotec) at I to 5 mcg/kg q812h PO (dog only) for ulcer prophylaxis. c.    Administer omeprazole at 0.7 mg/kg q24h PO dog only. d.    H 2-receptor antagonists have not been shown to be of benefit as a prophylactic therapy against NSAID-induced G1        ulcers. Enhancement of elimination Call the poison control center for advice concerning the specific NSAID in question. Avoid Gentamycin and other nephrotoxic drugs. References: Engelhardt J, Brown S: Drug-related nephropathies, Part 2: Commonly used drugs, Compend Cont Ed Pract Vet 9(3):281-288, 1987. Kore A: Ibuprofen. In Kirk RW, Bonagura JD, editors: Current veterinary therapy, ed 11, Philadelphia, 1992, Saunders. Murphy M: Toxin exposures in dogs and cats: drugs and household products, JAm VetMed Assoc 205(4):557-560, 1994 http://maxshouse.com/Poisons.html NONSTEROIDAL ANTIINFLAMMATORY DRUGS Ibuprofen,(Motrin, Advil, Nuprin, Vick’s DayQuil), phenylbutazone (Bute, Butazolidin), naproxen (Naprosyn, Aleve), indomethacin, piroxicam (Feldene). Clinical signs Abdominal pain, lethargy, anemia, melena, and hematernesis are most commonly seen with GI irritation and ulceration. If perforation has occurred, clinical signs may include abdominal pain, perhaps a fluid wave, shock, injected sclera, brick-red mucous membranes, and tachycardia. Temperature may be elevated or depressed. Pulses may be bounding or weak andthready. Clinical signs associated with acute renal failure include hyposthenuria or isosthenuria, renal tubular cell casts in the urine sediment, or glucosuria without hyperglycemia. Urine gammaglutamyltransferase (GGT) will be elevated. These early signs of acute renal failure will be followed by increasing BUN and creatinine, electrolyte disturbances, and possibly oliguria or more rarely polyuria. Occasionally, increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) may be seen http://maxshouse.com/FAdrug.html Phil

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Is ibuprofin safe for cats? I’m loooking for an alternative to the anti-inflammatory Meticam/Meloxicam that I can buy over the counter since my cat has a chronic problem with an injured eye and I can’t afford to go to the vet and pay for an appointment every time his eye gets inflamed. Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the liver (eg notihing steroidal). Andy

Response:

Is ibuprofin safe for cats? I’m loooking for an alternative to the anti-inflammatory Meticam/Meloxicam that I can buy over the counter since my cat has a chronic problem with an injured eye and I can’t afford to go to the vet and pay for an appointment every time his eye gets inflamed.

Nope – no ibuprofren, Tylenol, or aspirin.  Aspirin, through a vet, can be given in tiny, controlled amounts, but that’s it – *only* via the vet’s prescription.  Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the liver (eg notihing steroidal). Andy

From what I understand, Oscar, even with his liver problems, could probably take prednisolone – a relative of sorts of prednisone. (both steroids)  My cat w/ chronic hepatitis has been on prednisone (sometimes prednisolone – interchangable in her case) – out of necessity – for 3 years; it’s a necessary part of her treatment.  I asked my vet about prednisone Vs. prednisolone: they have the same net effect as far as treatment/results, but if a liver is virtually non-functioning, then prednisolone is permissible – it does not put any strain on the liver.  Prednisone is okay as long as the liver is functioning at least in a limited way.  Cathy

Response:

Ibuprofen, tylenol, and even aspirin can be deadly for cats.  Please seek the advise of a vet.  Most are willing to do phone consults.  Your vet may also be willing to supply the medicine without seeing your cat every time if he or she is aware that the problem. Please seek the advice of a vet.  Especially since dosages are critical. Gene – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Is ibuprofin safe for cats? I’m loooking for an alternative to the anti-inflammatory Meticam/Meloxicam that I can buy over the counter since my cat has a chronic problem with an injured eye and I can’t afford to go to the vet and pay for an appointment every time his eye gets inflamed. Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the liver (eg notihing steroidal). Andy

Response:

Thank God you posted first!  NO human medication should be given to a cat without a vet’s consult.  Aspirin is deadly to a cat.  Don’t ever take a chance in self medicating an animal. — Bugsy…. "The smallest deed is far greater than the grandest intention." ~Author Unknown~

Is ibuprofin safe for cats? I’m loooking for an alternative to the anti-inflammatory Meticam/Meloxicam that I can buy over the counter since my cat has a chronic problem with an injured eye and I can’t afford to go to the vet and pay for an appointment every time his eye gets inflamed. Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the liver (eg notihing steroidal). Andy

Response:

Andy, when I was a student and had my first cat (which I had for a total of 18 years – my dear little buddy, how I miss him still) there was a vet clinic that would provide services and treatment for the cost of the medication/shot plus a donation.  I usually donated $5, but there was one time I couldn’t even afford that.  So I paid for the meds and said I would try to make it up next time.  It was a wonderful community service.  The vets who worked there donated their time.  Usually half a day per week each. Do you think if you asked around, there might be such a clinic in your area?  Or some kind of subsidized clinic where the cost wouldn’t be so prohibitive?  And how about asking the vet for larger amounts of the meds when you do go to the vet?   Good luck. Tracy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ?Andy, if this is a chronic problem with your cat, speak to your vet about only ?going to the office to pick up the medication necessary to keep your cat’s ?chronic condition under control.  I did this for my dog after he kept getting Yes, I’ll do that. There’s also an online vet site where one can order meds… I’m not sure of the wisdom of that, on the one hand it does avoid the problem of having to pay for unnecessary exams in order to get meds for a chronic problem but on the other hand it can tempt people to self medicate. I’m tempted to become an advocate for socialised vetrinary care:) It’s not that I’m not willing to make sacrifices… I still don’t know how I’m going to pay for this week’s vet expenses but I didn’t hesitate to go to the vet when it was clear something was very wrong. But I’m a student without a job whose $30,000 in debt due to student loans and with 3 maxed out credit cards and I’m having enough trouble finding money for the meds nevermind having to pay extra for an office visit whenever I need a refill. I’ve found out that the vetropolycin the vet is prescribing Oscar has the precise same ingredients as an over the counter opthamalogical ointment at the pharmacy so next time Oscar has minor eye irritation I’m going to the pharmacy to get the ointment instead of going to the vet. I was hoping I could find over the counter drugs with the same ingredients as Metacam but there I have been unsuccessful. The pharmacist said ibuprofin was the same sort of thing, I checked the ingredients and they were totally different, hence my question. WHich goes to show you you shouldn’t take anyone’s word for anything. I"m grateful for the internet sites out there and I’ve found Max’s House especially valuable but there has to be a better way to get care for animals. I know most vets are caring people but I can’t help thinking that the vetrenary industry as a whole isn’t somewhat exploititive. Andy

Response:

Andy, Good for you.  I’m thrilled that you posted before taking the chance.  As I said, all human medicine should be viewed as being deadly to a cat.  The doses are all wrong and some of the medicine is just , well, deadly.  Too many people post their questions *after* giving their animal the medicine and wonder why it’s so sick. Hugs & Purrs, Rechelle – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ?Thank God you posted first!  NO human medication should be given to a cat ?without a vet’s consult.  Aspirin is deadly to a cat.  Don’t ever take a ?chance in self medicating an animal. Ok, thanks. Don’t worry, I knew that aspirin can be deadly and I wasn’t going to try anything else without advice. I have found an online vet site through which medication can be ordered but I think I’ll wait until my followup and ask my vet whether the medications he’s prescribing currently can be used whenever there’s a flareup and whether there are side effects from prolonged use. Andy

Response:

?Andy, if this is a chronic problem with your cat, speak to your vet about only ?going to the office to pick up the medication necessary to keep your cat’s ?chronic condition under control.  I did this for my dog after he kept getting Yes, I’ll do that. There’s also an online vet site where one can order meds… I’m not sure of the wisdom of that, on the one hand it does avoid the problem of having to pay for unnecessary exams in order to get meds for a chronic problem but on the other hand it can tempt people to self medicate. I’m tempted to become an advocate for socialised vetrinary care:) It’s not that I’m not willing to make sacrifices… I still don’t know how I’m going to pay for this week’s vet expenses but I didn’t hesitate to go to the vet when it was clear something was very wrong. But I’m a student without a job whose $30,000 in debt due to student loans and with 3 maxed out credit cards and I’m having enough trouble finding money for the meds nevermind having to pay extra for an office visit whenever I need a refill. I’ve found out that the vetropolycin the vet is prescribing Oscar has the precise same ingredients as an over the counter opthamalogical ointment at the pharmacy so next time Oscar has minor eye irritation I’m going to the pharmacy to get the ointment instead of going to the vet. I was hoping I could find over the counter drugs with the same ingredients as Metacam but there I have been unsuccessful. The pharmacist said ibuprofin was the same sort of thing, I checked the ingredients and they were totally different, hence my question. WHich goes to show you you shouldn’t take anyone’s word for anything. I"m grateful for the internet sites out there and I’ve found Max’s House especially valuable but there has to be a better way to get care for animals. I know most vets are caring people but I can’t help thinking that the vetrenary industry as a whole isn’t somewhat exploititive. Andy

Response:

? Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the ? liver (eg notihing steroidal). ? ? Andy ?From what I understand, Oscar, even with his liver problems, could probably ?take prednisolone – a relative of sorts of prednisone. (both steroids)  My ?cat w/ chronic hepatitis has been on prednisone (sometimes prednisolone – ?interchangable in her case) – out of necessity – for 3 years; it’s a ?necessary part of her treatment.  I asked my vet about prednisone Vs. ?prednisolone: they have the same net effect as far as treatment/results, but ?if a liver is virtually non-functioning, then prednisolone is permissible – ?it does not put any strain on the liver.  Prednisone is okay as long as the ?liver is functioning at least in a limited way.  Cathy Ok, I’ll ask my doctor about this. Prednisone was on my original estimate sheet but the vet struck it off when he found out that Oscar had liver problems and in our discussion he ruled out steroids completely until very late. In any case the eye seems to be better so hopefully I won’t have to worry about it for awhile and can concentrate on the liver problem. Andy

Response:

?Thank God you posted first!  NO human medication should be given to a cat ?without a vet’s consult.  Aspirin is deadly to a cat.  Don’t ever take a ?chance in self medicating an animal. Ok, thanks. Don’t worry, I knew that aspirin can be deadly and I wasn’t going to try anything else without advice. I have found an online vet site through which medication can be ordered but I think I’ll wait until my followup and ask my vet whether the medications he’s prescribing currently can be used whenever there’s a flareup and whether there are side effects from prolonged use. Andy

Response:

Is ibuprofin safe for cats? I’m loooking for an alternative to the anti-inflammatory Meticam/Meloxicam that I can buy over the counter since my cat has a chronic problem with an injured eye and I can’t afford to go to the vet and pay for an appointment every time his eye gets inflamed. Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the liver (eg notihing steroidal). Andy

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – is NOT safe for animals and should NEVER be administered.  Talk to your vet about baby aspirin for your cat, but DO NOT give it to him/her until you have the vet’s approval and dosage. Is ibuprofin safe for cats? I’m loooking for an alternative to the anti-inflammatory Meticam/Meloxicam that I can buy over the counter since my cat has a chronic problem with an injured eye and I can’t afford to go to the vet and pay for an appointment every time his eye gets inflamed. Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the liver (eg notihing steroidal). Andy

– The poster was asking about ibuprofen (i.e. Advil), not ASA (i.e. Aspirin).  But I agree, human meds should never be given to an animal without veterinary supervision.  Ibuprofen especially – is DEADLY. Marlene You never really learn to swear until you learn to drive. http://members.home.net/sassy34/HomePage.htm

Response:

is NOT safe for animals and should NEVER be administered.  Talk to your vet about baby aspirin for your cat, but DO NOT give it to him/her until you have the vet’s approval and dosage. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Is ibuprofin safe for cats? I’m loooking for an alternative to the anti-inflammatory Meticam/Meloxicam that I can buy over the counter since my cat has a chronic problem with an injured eye and I can’t afford to go to the vet and pay for an appointment every time his eye gets inflamed. Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the liver (eg notihing steroidal). Andy

Response:

IBUPROFEN Clinical signs: Cats: Small doses cause vomiting and gastric ulcers, larger doses can cause kidney failure and death. Treatment If early, induce vomiting, flush and pump the stomach and give activated charcoal. IV fluids, medications to heal gastric ulcers and general supportive care are all needed. IBUPROFEN   (Motrin, Advil Nuprin, Vick’s DayQuil) NONSTEROIDAL ANTI INFLAMMATORY DRUGS (NSAIDS) See also Acetaminophen, Aspirin Sources Many analgesics, antipyrerics, antiinflammatory drugs belong to this class of drug. txamples include indomethacin, piroxicam (Feldene), ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil Nuprin, Vick’s DayQuil), phenylbutazone (Bute, Butazoliclin): naproxen (Naprosyn, Aleve). Mechanism of action NSAIDS inactivate cyclooxygenase and therefore inhibit production of protective prostaglandins of the E-series. Reduced prostaglandin production results in reduced blood flow to the Gi tract, reduced secretion of gastric mucus, and G1 tract ischemia and ulceration (which may perforate). Prostaglandin inhibition also reduces blood flow to the kidneys resulting in renal papillary necrosis and acute renal failure. Newer NSAIDS such as carprofcn are touted to have fewer toxic side effects because of decreased inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis and yet offer effective antiinflammatory action. Clinical signs Abdominal pain, lethargy, anemia, melena, and hematemesis are most commonly seen with G1 irritation and ulceration. if perforation has occurred, clinical signs may include abdominal pain, perhaps a fluid wave, shock, injected sclera, brick-red mucous membranes, and tachycardia. Temperature may be elevated or depressed. Pulses may be bounding or weak and thready. Clinical signs associated with acute renal failure include hyposthenuria or isosthenuria, renal tubular cell casts in the urine sediment, or glucosuria without hyperglycemia. Urine gammaglutamyltransferase erase (GGT) will be elevated. These early signs of acute renal failure will be followed by increasing BUN and creatinine, electrolyte disturbances, and possibly oliguria or more rarely polyuria. Occasionally, increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) may be seen. Signs Abdominal pain Lethargy Anemia Melena, hematochezia Hematemesis Increased BUN and creatinine Hyposthenuria or isosthenuria Renal tubular casts Glucosuria without hyperglycernia Increased ALT and ALP Hypoventilation or apnea in some cases Acid-base disorders (sometimes initial alkalemia with later metabolic acidemia) Signs of peritonitis if perforation Coma, rarely seizures Treatment Treatment involves preventing or correcting GI ulceration, perforation, and acute renal failure. There is no specific antidote for NSAIDs. EMERGENCY TREATMENT Procedures I .    Secure the airway and ventilate as necessary. 2.    Administer supplemental oxygen . 3.    Secure venous access. Treat shock if needed. Collect blood and urine for laboratory testing. Obtain data base including        biochemical profile, electrolytes, venous or arterial blood gases, and urinalysis. 4.    Control seizures if necessary. 5.    Insert a urethral catheter and administer crystalloids to maintain urine output of at least 2 to 3 mL/kg/hour in the dog and 1        to 2 mL/kg/hour in the cat.  Rapid development of oliguria or anuria associated with NSAID overdose dramatically        increases the danger of overhydration. Patients must be monitored closely. Monitor central venous pressure if possible. 6.    Perform serial monitoring of the urine to detect evidence of acute renal failure. IF PERFORATION IS SUSPECTED Confirm with abdominocentesis. Consider diagnostic peritoneal lavage if abdominocentesis fails to confirm yet suspicion is high. Support the patient and perform exploratory surgery to repair perforation. Perform thorough abdominal lavage using large quantities of sterile saline Continue treatment with open abdominal techniques or intermittent abdominal lavage and active drainage. Provide IV broad-spectrum antibiotics. IF RENAL DAMAGE IS SUSPECTED BASED ON URINE ANALYSIS Treat acid-base and electrolyte imbalances: a. Fluid therapy with crystalloids will usually correct the acid-base problems. If severe acidernia is present (pH <7. 1), administer sodium bicarbonate. b. Treat hyperkalemia if present. Continue crystalloids to maintain urine production of at least 2 to 3 mL/kg/hour in the dog and I mL/kg/hour in the cat. Administer furosemide (Lasix) dopamine, or mannitol, or all three, to maintain urine production as above. Monitor CVP, blood pressure, and urine output. Decontaminate Induce emesis if recent ingestion (2 to 4 hours) or if signs are not present. Gastric lavage if signs are present after ingestion . Adminster activated charcoal and a saline cathartic; repeat PRN q4-6h. Administer antidotes or other indicated supportive care. a.     Protect the GI tract: a. Administer sucralfate. b.    Administer misoprostol (Cytotec) at I to 5 mcg/kg q812h PO (dog only) for ulcer prophylaxis. c.    Administer omeprazole at 0.7 mg/kg q24h PO dog only. d.    H 2-receptor antagonists have not been shown to be of benefit as a prophylactic therapy against NSAID-induced G1        ulcers. Enhancement of elimination Call the poison control center for advice concerning the specific NSAID in question. Avoid Gentamycin and other nephrotoxic drugs. References: Engelhardt J, Brown S: Drug-related nephropathies, Part 2: Commonly used drugs, Compend Cont Ed Pract Vet 9(3):281-288, 1987. Kore A: Ibuprofen. In Kirk RW, Bonagura JD, editors: Current veterinary therapy, ed 11, Philadelphia, 1992, Saunders. Murphy M: Toxin exposures in dogs and cats: drugs and household products, JAm VetMed Assoc 205(4):557-560, 1994 http://maxshouse.com/Poisons.html NONSTEROIDAL ANTIINFLAMMATORY DRUGS Ibuprofen,(Motrin, Advil, Nuprin, Vick’s DayQuil), phenylbutazone (Bute, Butazolidin), naproxen (Naprosyn, Aleve), indomethacin, piroxicam (Feldene). Clinical signs Abdominal pain, lethargy, anemia, melena, and hematernesis are most commonly seen with GI irritation and ulceration. If perforation has occurred, clinical signs may include abdominal pain, perhaps a fluid wave, shock, injected sclera, brick-red mucous membranes, and tachycardia. Temperature may be elevated or depressed. Pulses may be bounding or weak andthready. Clinical signs associated with acute renal failure include hyposthenuria or isosthenuria, renal tubular cell casts in the urine sediment, or glucosuria without hyperglycemia. Urine gammaglutamyltransferase (GGT) will be elevated. These early signs of acute renal failure will be followed by increasing BUN and creatinine, electrolyte disturbances, and possibly oliguria or more rarely polyuria. Occasionally, increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) may be seen http://maxshouse.com/FAdrug.html Phil

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Is ibuprofin safe for cats? I’m loooking for an alternative to the anti-inflammatory Meticam/Meloxicam that I can buy over the counter since my cat has a chronic problem with an injured eye and I can’t afford to go to the vet and pay for an appointment every time his eye gets inflamed. Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the liver (eg notihing steroidal). Andy

Response:

Is ibuprofin safe for cats? I’m loooking for an alternative to the anti-inflammatory Meticam/Meloxicam that I can buy over the counter since my cat has a chronic problem with an injured eye and I can’t afford to go to the vet and pay for an appointment every time his eye gets inflamed.

Nope – no ibuprofren, Tylenol, or aspirin.  Aspirin, through a vet, can be given in tiny, controlled amounts, but that’s it – *only* via the vet’s prescription.  Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the liver (eg notihing steroidal). Andy

From what I understand, Oscar, even with his liver problems, could probably take prednisolone – a relative of sorts of prednisone. (both steroids)  My cat w/ chronic hepatitis has been on prednisone (sometimes prednisolone – interchangable in her case) – out of necessity – for 3 years; it’s a necessary part of her treatment.  I asked my vet about prednisone Vs. prednisolone: they have the same net effect as far as treatment/results, but if a liver is virtually non-functioning, then prednisolone is permissible – it does not put any strain on the liver.  Prednisone is okay as long as the liver is functioning at least in a limited way.  Cathy

Response:

Ibuprofen, tylenol, and even aspirin can be deadly for cats.  Please seek the advise of a vet.  Most are willing to do phone consults.  Your vet may also be willing to supply the medicine without seeing your cat every time if he or she is aware that the problem. Please seek the advice of a vet.  Especially since dosages are critical. Gene – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Is ibuprofin safe for cats? I’m loooking for an alternative to the anti-inflammatory Meticam/Meloxicam that I can buy over the counter since my cat has a chronic problem with an injured eye and I can’t afford to go to the vet and pay for an appointment every time his eye gets inflamed. Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the liver (eg notihing steroidal). Andy

Response:

Thank God you posted first!  NO human medication should be given to a cat without a vet’s consult.  Aspirin is deadly to a cat.  Don’t ever take a chance in self medicating an animal. — Bugsy…. "The smallest deed is far greater than the grandest intention." ~Author Unknown~

Is ibuprofin safe for cats? I’m loooking for an alternative to the anti-inflammatory Meticam/Meloxicam that I can buy over the counter since my cat has a chronic problem with an injured eye and I can’t afford to go to the vet and pay for an appointment every time his eye gets inflamed. Oscar has liver problems so whatever I give him can’t strain the liver (eg notihing steroidal). Andy

Response:

Question:

Hi Scott.  I’ve been taking Voltaren for six weeks and I have not had stomach problems [I've always luckily had a cast iron stomach] but I have also had no relief from pain or inflammation either.  I keep asking to try something else but docs want me to perservere. Good luck. Wendy H. — Surf Usenet at home, on the road, and by email — always at Talkway. http://www.talkway.com

Response:

Hi Scott, I don’t take voltaren in special but another diclofenac med for the pain. And it works for me. Didn’t noticed any side effects so far (1/2 year now, 15mg/day). I’ve taken Mobec before, pretty good and really no side effects, but after 2 years it didn’t suffice anymore and so I changed to the diclofenac. I still have pains but not nearly as bas as when I forget to take the diclo. Sabina

Response:

Me, too. Diclofenic caused me major stomach problems, as did aspirin, ibuprofen, etc. Now on meloxicam (fourth day) and so far no side effects. As always, YMMV. I highly recommend reading the info that comes with the drugs and also ask questions of the pharmacist. I usually do a web search, too. There is no such thing as too much info when it comes to these drugs. Cheers, Andrea – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Scott Glad you have decided to delurk. I cannot give you any advice about RA as I have OA.  There are several people taking Voltaren (diclofenic).  I used to, but it started burning my tum (after about 2 years off and on the medication).  The first time I got the burning sensation, I stopped taking it, had a GP’s appointment two days later.  Told her and she immediately put me on Mobic (Meloxicam) which is one tablet, once a day.  Several people in Europe take Mobic, but I don’t know it it is available elsewhere.  It seems to be working and with no trouble, except sometimes excessive wind .  You could ask you doc/rheumy about it. Regards Hildagh London, England (born and raised in Belfast, N.Ireland) 4. Is anyone else taking Voltaren?  I haven’t read much about it here.

– Andrea Fuller MQSeries for MVS/ESA Development IBM Hursley, England

Response:

Welcome to the sand box. Here’s your official shovel (you’ll need it around here). You can sit next to me ’cause my mommy taught me never to throw sand.

Yea but watch her, she’ll steal your shovel. :-p Sarah L "The problem with people who have no vices is that generally you can be pretty sure they

Question:

This is primarily directed to all American veterans who have ms, and are NOT members of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, (PVA,) but is proffered here for the info of all with ms. This is NOT a fundraising pitch!!!   PVA is a Congressionally charted veterans service organization, (VSO,) much like the American Legion or the VFW except our membership is limited to vets with any type of spinal cord dysfunction, (SCD.)  Our charter also designates PVA as a health service organization, like the NMSS, March of Dimes or the MDA.  PVA advocates for all Americans with any sort of  SCD.  The Web site for our National organization is at www.pva.org/ PVA was the prime mover in Washington behind the ADA, ADAAG, The Freedom of the Skies Act, etc.  We were founded after WWII as a w/c athletic association for vets, and within a short time, realized that we knew more collectively about the care and feeding of folks in w/c’s than the medical establishment did. That’s when we received our charter from Congress as both a VSO and as a HSO. For over 50 years we have been working both in Washington, (and locally,) and within the VA to advocate for vet’s with SCD.  Of course as a HSO, we have been advocating for all persons with SCD.  The Federal Handicapped Parking Bill is based of the statute which we wrote in Louisiana about 10 years ago.  All persons in a decision making position within PVA has a SCD, the largest majority of whom are in w/c’s. All vets with ms are eligible for benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs’ Veteran Health Administration, and perhaps monetary benefits.  You are entitled to the full spectrum of health care and Durable Medical Equipments, (DME’s.)   You are also entitled to FREE life membership in the PVA and to receive both Paraplegia News, (PN) and Sports and Spokes at no cost.  We will also represent you with the VA, again at no cost to you.   My reasons for posting this are two fold, first to increase the membership with people with ms in PVA, and secondly we are in the process of placing vets with ms onto the existing SCI care system in the VA.  The more voices, the louder our demands for ms related research and state of the art ms medical care. Please contact me at this e-mail address for more info.  Take care and may God bless… Laisez le bontemps roule’! Bruce Kent, MBA President Bayou Gulf States Chapter Paralyzed Veterans of America, Inc. Teach us, good Lord, to serve Thee as Thou deservest: To give and not to count the cost; To fight and not to heed the wounds; To toil and not to seek for rest; To labor and not ask for any reward Save that of knowing that we do Thy will.                                          Prayer for Generosity (1548)                                          Saint Ignatius of Loyola Take care and may God bless… Bruce "Some day after mastering the winds, the waves, the tide and gravity, we shall harness for God the energies of Love, and then for the second time in the History of the World, Man will have discovered fire."

Response:

Thanks LVonne. Dist nurses call twice weekly, did a check and Pat has no fever(Cellulitus),and no evidence of thrombosis. Spoke to Doc and he has given me some Meloxicam tabs (anti-inflamatory) and some Traxam Foam(Felbinac) from which she appears to have got immediate relief. He is calling next week to check, nurses are back Friday.   Appreciate the advice though. — Stay Well,  Kind Regards John & Pat S. E-Mail  jmn…@mcmail.com – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -LaVonne Murphy wrote in message <6hjli6$…@bgtnsc02.worldnet.att.net

… John S wrote: New development.  I discovered this AM that Pat’s left fingers,hand and wrist, the

original

painful one, have become very swollen. The pain appears to have gotten

worse

too.       A call to the GP again. Methinks it could be Mr Arthur Itus

visiting

possibly? John Get her in to see the doc if you can.  This could be way more serious than Arthur coming to visit.  It can also be something like blood clots or cellulitis or ???  It is time to visit the doc and not just call particularly since she can’t tell you much.          L — To forgive is to let go of our pain.  It is also a way of letting go of our efforts to change others. (from a 1998 calandar)

Response:

On Sun, 19 Apr 1998 18:09:46 -0700, Ron & Dixie <aws…@MIDUSA.NET

wrote:  I hold it in the same position most all the time as it’s quite

difficult to straighten and the hand won’t hold or grasp anything anyway.  As such there’s no exercise.  To pull it out suddenly is painful. The pain is at the shoulder.

I have quite a bit of pain in my right shoulder.  However, I exercise it every day in the pool.  It hurts to move it, but not nearly as much as when I started.  The pain outside of moving in the pool is nearly gone. I find that I can do things in the water that hurt outside it. My doctor says that this is either bursitis or part of fibromyalgia. The other FM pain responds very well to exercise and stretching, but this one stubbornly hangs on. Kate

Response:

Hi Silver, I started taking 200 mgs of grape seed pycnogenol  daily about 5 months ago and for the first time in years I have been able to stay awake through the day. I still lie down occasionally but I really think this stuff has helped immensely with all my various symptoms. ‘cowboy’ also posted an article about how grape seed pycnogenol protects the liver from tylenol so…..I think there may be something to this one. BTW I’m also not pushing or selling product just reporting my personal experience. Take Care Shell – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Silver wrote:

Hi Dixie, Shortly after my husband and I married almost 12 yrs ago, I lost the use of my left arm (I couldn’t even hug him with both arms).  My left arm just laid across my tummy because I had no power or control of it.  Then last Sept/Oct., I started taking OPC3.  Before anyone flames, I am not selling it nor do I have ANY financial interest in it.  I’m only relating what seems to be helping me.  Anyway, I don’t know if it’ll help you or if you even want to try it but it’s sold all over the US and Isotoner has a sight on the Web.  It’s a grape seed/pine bark extract that seems to have given me more strength and over the last month or so, the use of my left arm.  I can even hug my husband with BOTH arms now. Silver Ron & Dixie wrote: I missed the original post. (as is typical, it may come in a couple of days)  But I have experienced a similar pain.  My left arm is useless too.  I hold it in the same position most all the time as it’s quite difficult to straighten and the hand won’t hold or grasp anything anyway.  As such there’s no exercise.  To pull it out suddenly is painful. The pain is at the shoulder.  So if someone tries to help me up I must caution them to take it easy around the shoulder.         Best Wishes,           Dixie John S wrote: Hi Bill.  Pat used to suffer alot from this about 14 years ago and it has suddenly flared up again now.  Her left arm was very tender to touch, especially around the back at the top, and the shoulder not so badly affected. It ached during the day and she complained about pain when in bed, it was nerve endings on edge at the time along with rheumatic type ache. Then, she used to take pain killers ( I’ve forgotten which ones) to control it.   As I said it has suddenly started up again after all this time, only now her left arm is almost u/s although the feeling is still there she can’t use it. Due to serious cognitive problems I am unable to find out what sort of pain it is. Today I asked which part was hurting and she said her elbow but pointed to her wrist, so it’s not possible to define.       Pat does tend to sit with her left arm in one place alot of the time, and clenches her hand tightly. This morning she almost cried with pain when I got her up on the sling , and screamed at me  "do not move her arm." It could therefore be down to stiffness due to lack of movement. As the intensity of the pain cannot be discovered, it’s hard to know whether to put it down to the MS or cramps etc. — I would be surprised if it were chest muscle strain with your wife although it can’t be ruled out.     Hope you get it sorted soon. Stay Well,  Kind Regards John & Pat S. E-Mail  jmn…@mcmail.com bil…@waveone.net wrote in message <6hcjgq$d9…@nnrp1.dejanews.com… My wife is cp and when she lays in bed she gets incrediable pain in her shoulder and upper arm. She has had all the tests, and xrays, all negative. her family dr. blamed it on chest wall muscle.  she is in a chair most of the day and alternates to bed for bottom relief.  aspirin usually works after 1/2 hr.  does anyone else experience this? billsr —–== Posted via Deja News, The Leader in Internet Discussion ==—– http://www.dejanews.com/   Now offering spam-free web-based newsreading

Response:

On Mon, 20 Apr 1998 16:58:47 -0700, Silver <silve…@ix.netcom.com

wrote:

last Sept/Oct., I started taking OPC3.   it’s sold all over the US and Isotoner has a sight on the Web.  It’s a grape seed/pine bark extract Silver

Hi Silver, I am glad you can hug your hubby with BOTH arms now!   What is the web sit address for Isotoner?  Thanks,   Janie To reply remove "ns." from address mir…@iamerica.net

Response:

John

Dist nurses call twice weekly, did a check and Pat has no fever(Cellulitus),and no evidence of thrombosis. Spoke to Doc and he has given me some Meloxicam tabs (anti-inflamatory) and some Traxam Foam(Felbinac) from which she appears to have got immediate relief.

I am glad you have some assist in these things.  It is too easy for even professionals to make mistakes in these situations when somebody doesn’t communicate well.  It must be hell for you sometimes. A big WHEW that Pat got some relief from the meds.         L — To forgive is to let go of our pain.  It is also a way of letting go of our efforts to change others. (from a 1998 calandar)

Response:

John S wrote:

New development.  I discovered this AM that Pat’s left fingers,hand and wrist, the original painful one, have become very swollen. The pain appears to have gotten worse too.       A call to the GP again. Methinks it could be Mr Arthur Itus visiting possibly?

John Get her in to see the doc if you can.  This could be way more serious than Arthur coming to visit.  It can also be something like blood clots or cellulitis or ???  It is time to visit the doc and not just call particularly since she can’t tell you much.           L — To forgive is to let go of our pain.  It is also a way of letting go of our efforts to change others. (from a 1998 calandar)

Response:

Hi Dixie, Shortly after my husband and I married almost 12 yrs ago, I lost the use of my left arm (I couldn’t even hug him with both arms).  My left arm just laid across my tummy because I had no power or control of it.  Then last Sept/Oct., I started taking OPC3.  Before anyone flames, I am not selling it nor do I have ANY financial interest in it.  I’m only relating what seems to be helping me.  Anyway, I don’t know if it’ll help you or if you even want to try it but it’s sold all over the US and Isotoner has a sight on the Web.  It’s a grape seed/pine bark extract that seems to have given me more strength and over the last month or so, the use of my left arm.  I can even hug my husband with BOTH arms now. Silver – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Ron & Dixie wrote:

I missed the original post. (as is typical, it may come in a couple of days)  But I have experienced a similar pain.  My left arm is useless too.  I hold it in the same position most all the time as it’s quite difficult to straighten and the hand won’t hold or grasp anything anyway.  As such there’s no exercise.  To pull it out suddenly is painful. The pain is at the shoulder.  So if someone tries to help me up I must caution them to take it easy around the shoulder.         Best Wishes,           Dixie John S wrote: Hi Bill.  Pat used to suffer alot from this about 14 years ago and it has suddenly flared up again now.  Her left arm was very tender to touch, especially around the back at the top, and the shoulder not so badly affected. It ached during the day and she complained about pain when in bed, it was nerve endings on edge at the time along with rheumatic type ache. Then, she used to take pain killers ( I’ve forgotten which ones) to control it.   As I said it has suddenly started up again after all this time, only now her left arm is almost u/s although the feeling is still there she can’t use it. Due to serious cognitive problems I am unable to find out what sort of pain it is. Today I asked which part was hurting and she said her elbow but pointed to her wrist, so it’s not possible to define.       Pat does tend to sit with her left arm in one place alot of the time, and clenches her hand tightly. This morning she almost cried with pain when I got her up on the sling , and screamed at me  "do not move her arm." It could therefore be down to stiffness due to lack of movement. As the intensity of the pain cannot be discovered, it’s hard to know whether to put it down to the MS or cramps etc. — I would be surprised if it were chest muscle strain with your wife although it can’t be ruled out.     Hope you get it sorted soon. Stay Well,  Kind Regards John & Pat S. E-Mail  jmn…@mcmail.com bil…@waveone.net wrote in message <6hcjgq$d9…@nnrp1.dejanews.com… My wife is cp and when she lays in bed she gets incrediable pain in her shoulder and upper arm. She has had all the tests, and xrays, all negative. her family dr. blamed it on chest wall muscle.  she is in a chair most of the day and alternates to bed for bottom relief.  aspirin usually works after 1/2 hr.  does anyone else experience this? billsr —–== Posted via Deja News, The Leader in Internet Discussion ==—– http://www.dejanews.com/   Now offering spam-free web-based newsreading

Response:

New development.  I discovered this AM that Pat’s left fingers,hand and wrist, the original painful one, have become very swollen. The pain appears to have gotten worse too.       A call to the GP again. Methinks it could be Mr Arthur Itus visiting possibly? — Stay Well,  Kind Regards John & Pat S. E-Mail  jmn…@mcmail.com – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -John S wrote in message <353a20d…@news1.mcmail.com

… Hi Bill. Pat used to suffer alot from this about 14 years ago and it has suddenly flared up again now. Her left arm was very tender to touch, especially around the back at the top, and the shoulder not so badly affected. It ached during the day and

she

complained about pain when in bed, it was nerve endings on edge at the time along with rheumatic type ache. Then, she used to take pain killers ( I’ve forgotten which ones) to control it.  As I said it has suddenly started up again after all this time, only now her left arm is almost u/s although the feeling is still there she can’t

use

it. Due to serious cognitive problems I am unable to find out what sort of pain it is. Today I asked which part was hurting and she said her elbow but pointed to her wrist, so it’s not possible to define.      Pat does tend to sit with her left arm in one place alot of the time, and clenches her hand tightly. This morning she almost cried with pain when I got her up on the sling , and screamed at me  "do not move her arm." It could therefore be down to stiffness due to lack of movement. As the intensity of the pain cannot be discovered, it’s hard to know whether to

put

it down to the MS or cramps etc. — I would be surprised if it were chest muscle strain with your wife although it can’t be ruled out.    Hope you get it sorted soon. Stay Well,  Kind Regards John & Pat S. E-Mail  jmn…@mcmail.com bil…@waveone.net wrote in message <6hcjgq$d9…@nnrp1.dejanews.com… My wife is cp and when she lays in bed she gets incrediable pain in her shoulder and upper arm. She has had all the tests, and xrays, all

negative.

her family dr. blamed it on chest wall muscle.  she is in a chair most of the day and alternates to bed for bottom relief.  aspirin usually works after 1/2 hr.  does anyone else experience this? billsr —–== Posted via Deja News, The Leader in Internet Discussion ==—– http://www.dejanews.com/   Now offering spam-free web-based newsreading

Response:

I missed the original post. (as is typical, it may come in a couple of days)  But I have experienced a similar pain.  My left arm is useless too.  I hold it in the same position most all the time as it’s quite difficult to straighten and the hand won’t hold or grasp anything anyway.  As such there’s no exercise.  To pull it out suddenly is painful. The pain is at the shoulder.  So if someone tries to help me up I must caution them to take it easy around the shoulder.         Best Wishes,           Dixie – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -John S wrote:

Hi Bill.  Pat used to suffer alot from this about 14 years ago and it has suddenly flared up again now.  Her left arm was very tender to touch, especially around the back at the top, and the shoulder not so badly affected. It ached during the day and she complained about pain when in bed, it was nerve endings on edge at the time along with rheumatic type ache. Then, she used to take pain killers ( I’ve forgotten which ones) to control it.   As I said it has suddenly started up again after all this time, only now her left arm is almost u/s although the feeling is still there she can’t use it. Due to serious cognitive problems I am unable to find out what sort of pain it is. Today I asked which part was hurting and she said her elbow but pointed to her wrist, so it’s not possible to define.       Pat does tend to sit with her left arm in one place alot of the time, and clenches her hand tightly. This morning she almost cried with pain when I got her up on the sling , and screamed at me  "do not move her arm." It could therefore be down to stiffness due to lack of movement. As the intensity of the pain cannot be discovered, it’s hard to know whether to put it down to the MS or cramps etc. — I would be surprised if it were chest muscle strain with your wife although it can’t be ruled out.     Hope you get it sorted soon. Stay Well,  Kind Regards John & Pat S. E-Mail  jmn…@mcmail.com bil…@waveone.net wrote in message <6hcjgq$d9…@nnrp1.dejanews.com… My wife is cp and when she lays in bed she gets incrediable pain in her shoulder and upper arm. She has had all the tests, and xrays, all negative. her family dr. blamed it on chest wall muscle.  she is in a chair most of the day and alternates to bed for bottom relief.  aspirin usually works after 1/2 hr.  does anyone else experience this? billsr —–== Posted via Deja News, The Leader in Internet Discussion ==—– http://www.dejanews.com/   Now offering spam-free web-based newsreading

Response:

My wife is cp and when she lays in bed she gets incrediable pain in her shoulder and upper arm. She has had all the tests, and xrays, all negative. her family dr. blamed it on chest wall muscle.  she is in a chair most of the day and alternates to bed for bottom relief.  aspirin usually works after 1/2 hr.  does anyone else experience this? billsr —–== Posted via Deja News, The Leader in Internet Discussion ==—– http://www.dejanews.com/   Now offering spam-free web-based newsreading

Response:

I am being treated for a frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis). It may be brought on from reduced use of the arm.  It is extreemly painful.  Have an orthopedist check it out. Good Luck Debbie – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -bil…@waveone.net wrote:

My wife is cp and when she lays in bed she gets incrediable pain in her shoulder and upper arm. She has had all the tests, and xrays, all negative. her family dr. blamed it on chest wall muscle.  she is in a chair most of the day and alternates to bed for bottom relief.  aspirin usually works after 1/2 hr.  does anyone else experience this? billsr —–== Posted via Deja News, The Leader in Internet Discussion ==—– http://www.dejanews.com/   Now offering spam-free web-based newsreading

Response:

Hi Bill.  Pat used to suffer alot from this about 14 years ago and it has suddenly flared up again now.  Her left arm was very tender to touch, especially around the back at the top, and the shoulder not so badly affected. It ached during the day and she complained about pain when in bed, it was nerve endings on edge at the time along with rheumatic type ache. Then, she used to take pain killers ( I’ve forgotten which ones) to control it.   As I said it has suddenly started up again after all this time, only now her left arm is almost u/s although the feeling is still there she can’t use it. Due to serious cognitive problems I am unable to find out what sort of pain it is. Today I asked which part was hurting and she said her elbow but pointed to her wrist, so it’s not possible to define.       Pat does tend to sit with her left arm in one place alot of the time, and clenches her hand tightly. This morning she almost cried with pain when I got her up on the sling , and screamed at me  "do not move her arm." It could therefore be down to stiffness due to lack of movement. As the intensity of the pain cannot be discovered, it’s hard to know whether to put it down to the MS or cramps etc. — I would be surprised if it were chest muscle strain with your wife although it can’t be ruled out.     Hope you get it sorted soon. Stay Well,  Kind Regards John & Pat S. E-Mail  jmn…@mcmail.com – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -bil…@waveone.net wrote in message <6hcjgq$d9…@nnrp1.dejanews.com

… My wife is cp and when she lays in bed she gets incrediable pain in her shoulder and upper arm. She has had all the tests, and xrays, all negative. her family dr. blamed it on chest wall muscle.  she is in a chair most of the day and alternates to bed for bottom relief.  aspirin usually works after 1/2 hr.  does anyone else experience this? billsr —–== Posted via Deja News, The Leader in Internet Discussion ==—– http://www.dejanews.com/   Now offering spam-free web-based newsreading

Response:

HI there I wonder what type of positioning she is in during the day and what her available joint range of motion is in her upper extremities. Often times with little variation in positioning, not only can muscles tighten but also the connective tissue called fascia surrounding them. Does she have a therapist and if so has her fascial system been evaluated? Tara

~Greetings~From~The~Lyon~Family~

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