Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) are commonly used in both human and animal medical practice for a broad scope of indications, and are relatively easy to obtain without a prescription. Many Over-The-Counter (OTC) and prescription preparations are sold under a slew of brand names with handfuls Carprofen (Rimadyl), Deracoxib (Dermaxx) , Firocoxib (Pervicox), and others garnering FDA-Approval. The principal function of this class of pharmaceutical is to modulate the up-regulation of an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX). When COX production is increased a biochemical cascade results in several endogenous molecules being produced, of which one set are prostaglandins. Prostaglandins have both beneficial and detrimental functions in physiology, and in some circumstances contribute to systemic inflammation and pain. Inflammation is a natural response from the immune system that initiates a host of cellular repair mechanisms that play an intricate role in how animals heal and how these autonomic systems function. Cannabinoids have shown to possess a powerful propensity to manipulate natural biological processes through a unique interplay with endocannabinoid receptors spread throughout all mammalian tissues.
As our pets age a very common symptomology is increased joint pain and stiffness. In some circumstances such as in a condition called osteoarthritis (OA) it can potentially worsen to almost being immobilizing. If that is the case, it makes a pet parent wonder if they will have to give OTC NSAIDs or a prescription strength NSAID to their furry family member indefinitely. Rimadyl can have very serious side effects. While liver and kidney related side effects are generally reported as rare, common recommended practice of veterinary professionals is to conduct regular blood work monitoring hepatic biomarkers. Prolonged usages of any NSAID is contraindicated. Changes in appetite, vomiting, seizure, and dermal issues are among an enumeration of possible side effects. It's in light of all these indications many owners opt to try a natural or homeopathic means to address or complement a DVM guided treatment regimen for there pet's pain and inflammatory management. There are growing numbers of DVMs and Veterinary Professionals alike that are opting to utilize the therapeutic potential intrinsic to the cannabis plant be it with cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), or any of the isomeric and/or enantiomeric derivations of the vast array of cannabinoids that exist in the Cannabinoid Pathway.
In a 2017 Cornell University study dogs diagnosed with OA where given CBD twice daily for four weeks. The results were quite promising and ultimately concluded that CBD oil when administered at applicable dosages produces no appreciable side effects while decreasing pain and increasing overall comfort and quality of life. Clinically, cannabinoids have a parse history in western medicine, but there are quite literally mountains of models, trials, and anecdotal evidence that establishes their profound biochemical utility in pharmacology relative to our furry animal friends and mammalian cells as a whole.
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