Metacam vs Pardale-V
A detailed comparison of Metacam and Pardale-V for dogs. Which is the better choice? We compare ingredients, dosing, price, and side effects.
Metacam
Meloxicam oral suspension — an NSAID that reduces pain and inflammation. The most prescribed long-term painkiller for dogs in the UK.
Pardale-V
Paracetamol + codeine combination tablet. Used for short-term mild to moderate pain in dogs. One of the few paracetamol products licensed for dogs.
Save on Metacam or Pardale-V at a UK pharmacy
UK registered pharmacies dispense the same prescription medications as your vet, often for less. Ask your vet for a written prescription, then fill it online.
Affiliate links to The Pharm Pet Co., a UK registered veterinary pharmacy. We may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Always follow your vet's guidance on medication choice and dosing.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Metacam | Pardale-V |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Meloxicam | Paracetamol + Codeine Phosphate |
| Form | Oral suspension | Tablet |
| Frequency | Once daily (long-term) | Every 8 hours (short-term) |
| Species | Dogs | Dogs |
| Price Range | £12–£28/bottle | £8–£15/box |
Key Differences
Duration of use
Metacam is for long-term/chronic pain; Pardale-V is short-term only (5 days max).
Mechanism
Metacam is an anti-inflammatory NSAID; Pardale-V is a painkiller (paracetamol + opioid).
Cat safety
Metacam has a cat formulation; Pardale-V (paracetamol) is FATAL to cats.
Dosing
Metacam once daily; Pardale-V three times daily.
Use case
Metacam for arthritis/chronic inflammation; Pardale-V for post-surgical or acute injury pain.
Pros & Cons
Metacam
Pros
- Licensed for long-term use in dogs
- Anti-inflammatory AND painkiller
- Well-tolerated for chronic conditions
- Liquid — easy to dose precisely
Cons
- GI side effects possible
- Not suitable for short-term acute pain alone
- Must be given with food
- Prescription only
Pardale-V
Pros
- Good for short-term post-operative pain
- Codeine provides effective pain relief
- Can be combined with NSAIDs under vet direction
- Relatively affordable
Cons
- Short-term use only (typically 5 days)
- NEVER give to cats — paracetamol is lethal to cats
- Codeine causes sedation
- Three times daily dosing
Compare Prices & Save
Both Metacam and Pardale-V may be cheaper from a licensed online retailer than from your vet. Ask for a written prescription and compare prices.
Important: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your vet before starting, stopping, or switching your pet's medication. Prices shown are typical UK ranges and may vary by product size, weight band, and retailer.
Alternative options to consider
Retailers we earn a commission from. It costs you nothing and never changes what we show.
The Pharm Pet Co. — Pet Pharmacy
UK online pet pharmacy. Flea, worm, prescription medications, supplements and pet food. Save vs vet prices.
Pet Care at Pharmacy2U
The UK's largest online pharmacy. Pet wormers, flea treatments, dental and joint care. Free delivery on orders over £30.
YuMOVE Joint Care for Dogs
The UK's number-one selling joint supplement for dogs. Triple action with green-lipped mussel, glucosamine and hyaluronic acid. Works in six weeks or money back.
We may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you.