Cat & Dog - Nimesulide

Why has my veterinary surgeon prescribed this medicine?

Nimesulide is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent used to relieve pain and inflammation. Your veterinary surgeon may prescribe nimesulide to reduce pain in arthritis.

How does this medicine work?

Nimesulide blocks the cyclo-oxygenase enzyme, which is involved in the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are substances that trigger pain and inflammation, therefore these responses are reduced.

How do I give this medication?

• Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinary surgeon. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
• Try to give this medication at about the same time each day.
• Give this medication to your pet with food.
• DO NOT give the pet more medicine than directed and DO NOT give more often than directed.
• Do not give this medication for longer than directed.
• Try not to miss giving any doses.
• Wash your hands after handling the medication.
• In case of accidental ingestion, seek medical advice immediately and show the package leaflet or label to the physician.

What if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

How do I store this medicine?

Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine will break down if exposed to moisture.

Potential side effects

• Although a drug has potential side effects, it does not mean that there is necessarily a high risk of any of these occurring. Tell your veterinary surgeon if your puppy is less than 4 months of age. Your veterinary surgeon may weigh your dog. Tell your veterinary surgeon if you think your pet may be pregnant or is nursing puppies.
• Potential side effects of nimesulide include mild stomach upset such as reduced appetite, vomiting and soft faeces or diarrhoea. Notify your veterinary surgeon if side effects appear and remain troublesome.
• Other side effects may occur. Your pet's urine may be a dark yellow colour while on treatment. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinary surgeon.

Possible drug interactions

• Make sure to tell your veterinary surgeon what other medication you are giving to your pet.
• Quite often your veterinary surgeon may prescribe two different medications, even if a drug interaction may occur. In this case, your veterinary surgeon may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
• Drugs may interact such that they can cause an increased or decreased effect or side effects. Although drug interactions may occur, it does not mean that there is necessarily a high risk of any of these occurring.
• Contact your veterinary surgeon if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.