Rimadyl (carprofen) is one of the longest-established veterinary NSAIDs, manufactured by Zoetis. It has been used for over 25 years in the UK for the management of osteoarthritis pain and post-operative inflammation in dogs. While newer alternatives exist, Rimadyl remains widely prescribed and is competitively priced, especially in generic form.

Price Comparison

Rimadyl/carprofen tablets (per month supply for a medium dog):

  • Branded Rimadyl from your vet: £20–£45 per month
  • Generic carprofen from your vet: £12–£30 per month
  • Online pharmacies (with prescription): £8–£22 per month
  • Prescription fee: £10–£25

Generic carprofen is widely available and significantly cheaper than branded Rimadyl. Online savings of 45–60% compared to branded vet prices are common.

What Does Rimadyl Treat?

  • Osteoarthritis pain and inflammation in dogs
  • Post-operative pain following orthopaedic and soft tissue surgery
  • Acute musculoskeletal pain and inflammation

Species and Forms

  • Dogs only: Palatable tablets (20mg, 50mg, 100mg) and injectable solution
  • Dosing: 4mg/kg daily, given as 2mg/kg twice daily or 4mg/kg once daily
  • Not for cats

Side Effects

  • Gastrointestinal: vomiting, diarrhoea, reduced appetite, and GI ulceration
  • Liver toxicity: rare but documented — monitor liver enzymes with regular blood tests
  • Kidney effects: as with all NSAIDs, monitoring required for long-term use
  • Do not use with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids
  • Blood tests every 6–12 months recommended for long-term use

Rimadyl vs Metacam

  • Efficacy: Both are effective — some dogs respond better to one than the other
  • Form: Rimadyl is a tablet; Metacam is a liquid (or tablet — Metacam chewable also available)
  • Price: Generic carprofen is often cheaper than generic meloxicam (Loxicom)
  • History: Rimadyl has a longer track record with extensive safety data

Prescription Requirements

Rimadyl/carprofen is POM-V. Obtain a written prescription to buy from online pharmacies at substantial savings.

How to Save

  • Generic carprofen: Ask your vet to prescribe generic carprofen instead of branded Rimadyl — same drug, lower price
  • Written prescription: Buy from online pharmacies and save 45–60%
  • Larger tablet sizes: 100mg tablets split in half are often cheaper than buying 50mg tablets
  • Compare prices: Use VetCost to compare pharmacy prices

Last updated: March 2026. Sources: VMD product datasheet, CMA provisional decision (October 2025), VetCost pharmacy data.