Galliprant for Dogs: A Medication for Arthritis Pain

Arthritis is a common, painful condition of the joints that affects our canine companions. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Galliprant (grapiprant) are often the first-choice treatment for arthritis in dogs. 

Find out how grapiprant is used to help dogs with arthritis.

Galliprant for dogs at a glance

What is Galliprant for dogs, and how does it work?

Galliprant (grapiprant) is an NSAID used to treat arthritis pain in dogs. 

Galliprant blocks a pain receptor called EP4. This receptor is more common in dogs with arthritis and causes pain and inflammation. By blocking EP4, grapiprant prevents inflammation. Less inflammation results in less pain for dogs with arthritis.

What is Galliprant used for in dogs?

Galliprant is FDA approved to control pain and inflammation caused by arthritis in dogs.

Is Galliprant safe for dogs?

Galliprant is safe for most dogs. Veterinarians may run lab work, such as blood and urine tests, before prescribing the medication for long-term use. Dogs prone to having two copies of the MDR1 gene mutation (homozygous) like collies may be at an increased risk of side effects.

Galliprant’s safety hasn’t been studied in dogs with heart disease, who are under 9 months old, or who weigh under 8 lbs.

What is the dosage of Galliprant for dogs, and how is it given?

The dosage of Galliprant for dogs is 2 mg per kilogram of body weight by mouth every 24 hours. Galliprant comes in a tablet. Calculate the dose to the nearest half tablet.

According to the FDA-approved prescribing information, there isn’t an accurate dose for dogs under 8 lbs.

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What are the common side effects of Galliprant in dogs?

Common side effects of Galliprant include:

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea or loose stools

• Decreased appetite

• Lack of energy

Other side effects include:

• Blood or mucus in poop

• Increase in liver enzymes

• Kidney issues

• Decrease in blood proteins

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What are the most serious risks of Galliprant for dogs?

The most serious risks of Galliprant typically occur in dogs with the MDR1 gene mutation. Dogs with two copies of the MDR1 gene mutation (often collies) may have a higher risk of side effects with Galliprant, especially vomiting. 

Fatal overdoses of Galliprant in dogs are rare. But an overdose commonly causes gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and bloody, watery, or mucus-filled diarrhea.

Does Galliprant interact with any other dog medications?

Galliprant can interact with several other dog medications. These include:

• ACE inhibitors like benazepril or enalapril

• Telmisartan

• Blood pressure medications like amlodipine 

• Aspirin

• Bisphosphonates like alendronate or zoledronate

• Steroids like dexamethasone or prednisone

• Diuretics like furosemide

• Other NSAIDs like meloxicam or carprofen

If your dog is on another NSAID, they will need to be off it for 5 to 7 days before switching to Galliprant. Do not give Galliprant with steroids. 

What should you do if your dog misses a dose of Galliprant?

If you miss giving your dog a dose of Galliprant, give the missing dose as soon as possible. Then, continue giving a dose every 24 hours as instructed by your veterinarian. Don’t double up on Galliprant doses to make up for a missed dose. 

Why trust our experts?

Written by:

Rhiannon Koehler, DVM, MPH

Rhiannon Koehler, DVM, MPH, has been involved in veterinary medicine for over a decade. Her clinical practice mainly involves care for shelter animals, low-cost care for underprivileged families, and wellness care for pet parents.

Edited by:

Renée Fabian, MA

Renée Fabian is the senior pet health editor at GoodRx. She’s worked for nearly 10 years as a journalist and editor across a wide range of health and well-being topics.

Reviewed by:

Ghanasyam Bey, DVM

Ghanasyam Bey, DVM, is from Cleveland, Ohio, and attended Princeton University for undergraduate studies. After a year of biology research at Duke University, he attended Ohio State College of Veterinary Medicine.

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