Use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for the treatment of canine osteoarthritis.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are one of the most commonly used classes of pharmaceutical in canine practice. Globally, the current oral NSAID market for chronic pain in small animals is estimated to be US$330 million, with the UK market valued at around US$47 million. As NSAIDs have developed, pharmaceutical companies have strived to optimise efficacy and reduce the incidence of adverse events, particularly those associated with the gastrointestinal system, through a greater understanding of basic pharmacology. This article discusses the latest innovations, including those relating to drug delivery and pharmacokinetics, in the NSAIDs used in dogs with osteoarthritis, which often requires long-term treatment.