Carprofen (brand name Rimadyl®) is an oral or injectable analgesic anti-inflammatory medication given 'off-label' to pet poultry for pain relief. It belongs to a class of drugs referred to as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is most frequently prescribed for treatment of minor or chronic pain and inflammation resulting from conditions such as chronic arthritis. It is also given to birds during post surgical recovery. Peak plasma levels of subcutaneously injected carprofen are reached 1 to 2 hours.
One study found that 1 mg/kg of carprofen raised pressure thresholds (decreased response to pressure) for at least 90 minutes after injected subcutaneously. In another study conducted on rapidly growing broiler chickens with chronic lameness, carprofen increased their speed and walking ability.
Caution: Carprofen can interact negatively with aspirin, cortisone-like drugs, and corticosteroids.