Carprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used by veterinarians as a supportive treatment for the relief of arthritic symptoms in geriatric dogs. Carprofen was previously used in... Carprofen was previously used in human medicine for over 10 years (1985-1995).
- Mechanism
- Curator reviewed
The mechanism of action of carprofen, like that of other NSAIDs, is believed to be associated with the inhibition of cyclooxygenase activity. Two unique cyclooxygenases have been described in mammals. The constitutive cyclooxygenase, COX-1, synthesizes prostaglandins necessary for normal gastrointestinal and renal function. The inducible cyclooxygenase, COX-2, generates prostaglandins involved in inflammation. Inhibition of COX-1 is thought to be associated with gastrointestinal and renal toxicity while inhibition of COX-2 provides anti-inflammatory activity. In an in vitro study using canine cell cultures, carprofen demonstrated selective inhibition of COX-2 versus COX-1.
- Primary indication
- For use as a pain reliever in the treatment of joint pain and post-surgical pain.Curator reviewed
- Formula / weight
- C15H12ClNO2 · 273.714 g/mol (avg)
- Code names
- C 5720 · C 8012 · Ro 20-5720/000
Resolves to
PUXBGTOOZJQSKH-UHFFFAOYSA-NSMILESCC(C(O)=O)C1=CC2=C(C=C1)C1=C(N2)C=CC(Cl)=C1What you can answer from here — as of September 23, 2026
Which drugs share a target with Carprofen, and which of those have an active Phase 3 trial?
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