Prescription Drug Use in Dogs:
A Growing Concern and the Role of CBD as a Natural Alternative
The use of prescription medications for dogs in the U.S. has been steadily increasing, as pet owners and veterinarians turn to pharmaceuticals to manage a variety of health conditions in their canine companions. Conditions such as arthritis, anxiety, epilepsy, allergies, and gastrointestinal issues are frequently treated with prescription drugs, mirroring the human reliance on medication to address chronic health issues. However, this growing dependence on pharmaceuticals for dogs comes with concerns over potential side effects, long-term health risks, and the increasing costs of medications.
Recent estimates report there are an estimated 65 million dogs in the U.S. Nearly 30 million of these dogs are on some form of prescription medication, with that number on the rise as more pets are diagnosed with chronic illnesses due to inferior food and over vaccination. With the rise of holistic and natural pet care, cannabidiol (CBD) has emerged as a promising alternative to petro-chemical medications, offering a safer, plant-based option without negative side effects.
Common Prescription Drugs Used for Dogs
The most common prescription drugs used for dogs target conditions that affect mobility, mental and neurological health, and overall well- being. Here are a few of the top conditions and the medications typically prescribed for them:
- Arthritis and Joint Pain
Arthritis affects approximately 20% of adult dogs and 80% of dogs over the age of 8**. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Rimadyl and Deramaxx, are commonly prescribed to manage pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. While effective, NSAIDs can cause side effects like gastrointestinal issues, liver damage, and kidney problems, especially with long-term use.
- Anxiety and Behavioral Issues
About 40- 50% of dogs in the U.S. experience some form of anxiety, whether due to separation, noise sensitivity, or other situational stressors. Medications such as benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (e.g., Prozac) are often prescribed to manage anxiety and behavioral issues. These drugs can lead to side effects such as drowsiness, disorientation, and, in some cases, dependence, often causing the dog to lose it’s personality and become dull.
- Epilepsy and Seizures
Tremors affects about 1- 5% of dogs. When tremors and seizures ore due to epilepsy, anticonvulsant drugs such as phenobarbital and potassium bromide are commonly used to control seizure activity. While they are effective, these medications can lead to liver damage, sedation, and behavioral changes over time.
- Allergies and Skin Conditions
Dogs with chronic allergies or skin conditions are frequently prescribed corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) or antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl). These medications help control itching and inflammation, but prolonged use of corticosteroids can weaken the immune system, leading to increased susceptibility to infections.
CBD as a Natural Alternative
CBD is emerging as a natural alternative to many of these prescription drugs due to its wide range of therapeutic benefits. Derived from industrial grade hemp, CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in regulating pain, mood, inflammation, and more in both humans and dogs on a cellular level. Here’s how CBD could potentially replace common prescription drugs without unwanted side effects:
- Pain and Inflammation (Arthritis)
CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties make it an effective alternative for managing arthritis and joint pain. A study published in the Frontiers in Veterinary Science showed that dogs with osteoarthritis experienced significant pain relief and improved mobility after receiving CBD. Unlike NSAIDs, CBD does not carry the same risks of liver or kidney damage.
- Anxiety and Behavioral Issues
CBD is increasingly being used to manage anxiety in dogs without the sedative effects common with traditional anxiety medications. By interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain, CBD promotes a sense of calm, reducing symptoms of anxiety, stress, and fear. Many pet owners report that CBD helps alleviate anxiety-related behaviors such as restlessness, excessive barking, aggression or destructive habits, offering a natural alternative to benzodiazepines and SSRIs.
- Seizure Control
CBD has gained widespread attention for its anticonvulsant properties. The FDA has even approved a CBD-based medication for epilepsy in humans, which has sparked interest in using CBD for dogs with seizures. Studies show that CBD may help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in dogs, offering a safer option than phenobarbital and other anticonvulsants.
- Allergies and Skin Conditions
CBD’s anti-inflammatory and immune-regulating properties can help alleviate itching, swelling, and discomfort caused by chronic allergies or skin conditions. As a natural option, CBD avoids the immune suppression and long-term health risks associated with corticosteroids.
Conclusion
With millions of dogs in the U.S. reliant on prescription medications to manage conditions like arthritis, anxiety, epilepsy, and allergies, the potential of CBD as a natural alternative is becoming increasingly clear. CBD offers a range of therapeutic benefits without the harsh side effects associated with conventional drugs, making it a safer option for long-term use. As more research supports its effectiveness, CBD could play a significant role in reducing the reliance on prescription drugs in dogs, promoting better health and well- being for our furry companions. If you want to support your pet with the total cellular fortification that full- spectrum hemp extract provides, choose a product like Orozona Oils, which retains the many beneficial properties of the hemp plant, honoring the wisdom of nature and delivering Golden Solutions.