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Vet Warns On Using Human Painkillers for Dogs & Recommends Controversial Alternative Instead
Mandi Jacewicz
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Pet parents never want to see their dogs in discomfort. If they are, we do all we can to bring them relief quickly. However, sometimes things happen at inopportune times, leaving us to consider our options in the medicine cabinet. (full video is below)
Unfortunately, most human pain relievers are not safe for dogs. Knowing what not to use instead is essential for keeping your four-legged friend at their best.
Veterinarian Andrew Jones is cautioning us against using human painkillers to treat our dog’s discomfort. He reveals many people use ibuprofen, but “Ibuprofen should never be used in dogs.” Voltaren Cream is another popular human pain-fighting option, but it’s also hazardous for dogs. If you apply it and your dog licks it, he describes, “It can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal ulcers.” Experts also agree that for safety reasons, we should avoid giving our dogs acetaminophen and administer no human painkillers of any kind without consulting our vet first.
A Little Known Alternative
This vet recommends using liquid DMSO for dogs in pain. He even reports using it after hurting his back with outstanding success. DMSO works by being absorbed through the skin, “Decreasing inflammation and providing pain relief.” When treating his little dog, Tula, he extracts one mill and then rubs it on the inside of her knee. He advises this DMSO dosage for dogs can be safely applied three times each day.
DMSO: The Controversial Supplement Sparking Debate
Its formal name, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), belies its complex medical history. This by-product of pulp manufacturing has been utilized for over 100 years, with proponents claiming it safely relieves pain when used correctly. However, controversy surrounds its efficacy and safety.
“Relatively Safe, If Used Appropriately”
“Dermal application of DMSO seems to provide rapid, temporary relief of pain in patients with arthritis and connective tissue injuries,” reports a study from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). While the NIH notes adverse reactions are common, most are minor, like skin rash or irritation, often stemming from high concentrations.
Yet in 1965, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released an international warning about potential eye damage from DMSO, denying medical approval in the U.S. This sparked debate, until University of Oregon researchers announced a year later they found “No Human Eye Change” from DMSO.
Today, the FDA greenlights prescribed DMSO only for select medical uses, like treating painful bladder disease. However, the solution lacks approval for most applications, even as some users proclaim its success in online forums.
Users Advocate for Off-Label Uses
On Reddit, users described personally applying DMSO for unapproved uses like pain and cysts. “I have used [it] on a cyst for myself, and it got rid of it for good,” one commented. Another said DMSO eased their arthritis pain “if used consistently.”
Veterinarians caution against initiating any new medication without guidance. If negative reactions develop in pets, they advise immediately discontinuing use. The debate around this enigmatic solution will clearly continue.
Check out this video to see what this vet is proposing instead of NSAIDs:
@veterinarysecrets Dog in pain? Never ise these 2 human OTC medications! Use this awesome natural topical instead #dogpain #petpain #dogarthritis #ibuprofen #voltaren #dmso #homeremedies ♬ original sound – Andrew Jones, DVM
FAQ About DMSO and Dogs
What is DMSO and how is it used for dogs?
DMSO (Dimethyl Sulfoxide) is a chemical compound used for various medical purposes, including pain and swelling relief in dogs. It’s available in different forms like liquid DMSO and DMSO cream for topical application.
Can DMSO be used for treating cysts in dogs?
Yes, liquid DMSO for dogs can be applied to treat cysts. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which may help in reducing the size and discomfort of cysts.
What is the recommended DMSO dosage for dogs?
The DMSO dosage for dogs varies based on the condition being treated and the dog’s size. It’s essential to consult a veterinarian for the appropriate dosage to avoid adverse effects.
Is DMSO effective for pain and swelling in dogs?
DMSO is commonly used for pain and swelling for dogs, especially for conditions like swelling due to trauma or hip pain. It’s absorbed through the skin, providing localized relief.
Are there any adverse effects of using DMSO on dogs?
While DMSO is generally safe, adverse reactions are local and can include dryness of the skin, erythema, or vesiculation. In rare cases, general adverse reactions like oyster-like breath odor may occur.
Can DMSO cause any eye-related issues in dogs?
In some instances, eye and nuclear cataracts have been observed in animals treated with DMSO. It’s crucial to use it cautiously and monitor for any changes in the lens of the eye.
How should DMSO be applied to dogs for hip pain?
For hip pain in dogs, DMSO cream or liquid can be applied topically to the affected area. It’s important to follow the vet’s instructions regarding application frequency and quantity.
What should I do if my dog has an adverse reaction to DMSO?
If an adverse reaction like erythema or vesiculation occurs, or if the dog shows signs of discomfort, discontinue the medication and consult a veterinarian immediately.
Is it normal for dogs to have an oyster-like breath odor after DMSO application?
An oyster-like breath odor is a known, though not necessarily common, side effect of DMSO and can prove to be annoying. This is one of the limiting reversible states and should subside after discontinuing the medication.
Can DMSO be used for all dogs?
While DMSO can be beneficial, it’s not necessarily suitable for all dogs. Factors like the dog’s overall health, specific condition, and potential for adverse reactions should be considered. Always consult a veterinarian before using DMSO for your dog.
How does DMSO compare to other supplements and remedies that help with pain?
When comparing the effectiveness of DMSO (Dimethyl Sulfoxide) to supplements like Glucosamine, Green Lipped Mussel, and Turmeric for dogs, it’s important to understand that these substances work differently and are used for varying purposes in canine health.
Immediate Relief vs. Long-Term Care: DMSO is more suited for immediate pain relief and reducing acute inflammation, whereas supplements like glucosamine, green-lipped mussel, and turmeric are more for long-term joint health and maintenance.
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