Rimadyl Vs. Tramodol
- The main ingredient in Tramadol tablets is tramadol hydrochloride. Tramadol hydrochloride is a prescription-strength pain reliever. Each tablet contains 50 mg of tramadol hydrochloride. The main ingredient in Rimadyl is carprofen. Carprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, analgesic drug. Rimadyl caplets as well as Rimadyl chewables are available with either 100 mg, 75 mg or 25 mg of carprofen.
- The mechanisms behind Tramadol are similar to morphine. According to 1800petmeds.com, "Like morphine, Tramadol binds to and blocks receptors in the brain (opioid receptors) that are important for transmitting the sensation of pain throughout the body (see Reference 1)." Rimadyl contains carprofen, which suppresses pain and inflammation by inhibiting synthesis of compounds called prostaglandins.
- The main benefit in using Tramadol is that it relieves pain symptoms, including post-surgical as well as chronic pain. Tramadol can be used as an alternative or with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Rimadyl is very easy to administer to dogs as it is available in chewable, liver-flavored tablets. It is also very well-tolerated by all breeds.
- The proper dosing schedule for both medications should be designed by a veterinarian. The usual dose of Tramadol for dogs is 0.45 to 1.8 mg per pound of the pet's weight for pain relief. This medication should be taken orally every 8 to 12 hours. In the treatment for chronic cancer, the dose remains the same, but it should be taken every 6 hours. For cats, usually 1.8 mg per pound should be given twice a day. The usual dose for Rimadyl is 2 mg per pound given once a day. The dosing can be divided and given as 1 mg per pound twice per day
- In rare cases, Tramadol use can result in seizures. Risk of seizures is higher in dogs with a history of epilepsy or metabolic disorders, as well as dogs taking antidepressants, muscle relaxer or nausea medicines. Common side effects associated with Tramadol use are drowsiness, weakness, vomiting, constipation, blurred vision and insomnia. Common side effects associated with Rimadyl are headache, dizziness, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, depression, fatigue and dry mouth.
- Overdoses of Tramadol can be fatal. Symptoms of an overdose include shallow breathing, drowsiness, slow heartbeat, extreme weakness, fainting and coma. A dependancy on Tramadol can occur through regular use, but use of this medication should not be stopped suddenly as it may result in withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms include nausea, anxiety, diarrhea, tremors, chills and problems breathing. Taking Rimadyl can result in bloody, black or tarry stool as well as bloody vomit. If any of these symptoms occur, contact a veterinarian immediately.
