Pharmacotherapeutic group: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug
ATC Vet Code: QM01AE91
Pharmacodynamic properties
Carprofen, (±)-6-chloro-α-methylcarbazole-2-acetic acid, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is a derivative of phenylpropionic acid and a member of the arylpropionic acid class of NSAIDs. As a representative of the 2-arylpropionic family, it contains a chiral center at C2 of the propionic moiety and therefore, exists in 2 sterioisomeric forms, the (+)-S and (-)-R enantiomers.
Pharmacokinetic properties
Following oral administration of 4mg carprofen/kg to dogs, peak plasma concentrations (mean Cmax = 28.51 μg/ml) were achieved in 4 hours.
Absorption of carprofen is rapid and complete in the dog. The volume of distribution is small with the highest drug concentrations occurring in plasma. Ratios of tissue to plasma concentration are less than one, which is consistent with a high level of binding of carprofen to plasma proteins.