Galliprant (grapiprant) for Dogs

PetMD’s medications content was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer your most common questions about how medications function, their side effects, and what species they are prescribed for. This content shouldn’t take the place of advice by your vet.

What Is Galliprant for Dogs?

Galliprant (active ingredient grapiprant) for dogs is a prescription veterinary nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used in the management of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs.

In dogs with osteoarthritis, cartilage wears down on the surface of the joint, which causes the bones and nerve endings of the joint to painfully rub together.

If your veterinarian suspects osteoarthritis in your dog, they may prescribe Galliprant to help your dog feel more comfortable and improve mobility.

Galliprant is an easy-to-give daily medication that can be used at the earliest signs of osteoarthritis. It does not cure osteoarthritis but helps improve symptoms such as trouble rising from rest, slowing down on walks, limping, and trouble jumping onto furniture, navigating steps, or getting up into the car.

Galliprant Considerations in Dogs

Galliprant should not be used in dogs who are hypersensitive to the active ingredient, grapiprant. At the time of this publication, safe use had not yet been established in dogs younger than nine months of age, dogs weighing less than eight pounds, breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs, or in dogs with heart disease.

Galliprant should be used with caution in dogs with the MDR1 gene mutation (common in Collies, Shelties, and Australian Shepherds).

Dogs with this gene mutation (also known as ABCB1-1delta) have a harder time breaking down certain types of medications including Galliprant. If your dog has this gene mutation, your vet may decrease your dog’s dosage accordingly.

Giving Galliprant with certain medications can result in health risks to your dog, so it is important to discuss your pet’s medications, including vitamins and supplements, and medical conditions with your veterinarian.

How Galliprant Works in Dogs

The active ingredient in Galliprant, grapiprant, is a newer NSAID with a unique mode of action that blocks inflammation and pain through a different pathway than other commonly prescribed NSAIDs.

As Galliprant specifically blocks a certain receptor (prostaglandin EP4) whereas traditional NSAIDs block COX (cyclooxygenase), Galliprant helps provide relief from pain and inflammation with less potential impact on the gastrointestinal system, blood vessels, and the normal formation of blood clots.

Galliprant Directions for Dogs

Check instructions on the label and from your veterinarian.

Galliprant is usually given once a day. The lowest effective dose is recommended to be given over the shortest period of time and is dependent on your pet’s response to the medication.

Galliprant may be given with or without food. Your vet will recommend what is best for your dog.

Missed a Dose?

Speak with your veterinarian about what to do if you forget to give a dose of Galliprant. Generally, they may instruct you to give it when you remember, or if it is almost time for your pet’s next dose, to skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosing schedule. Do not give extra or double doses.

Possible Side Effects of Galliprant in Dogs

Possible side effects of Galliprant in dogs may include:

• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Lack of appetite
• Lethargy
• Soft stool with mucus
• Watery or bloody stools

Human Side Effects

This medication is not approved for use in humans. Due to possible side effects, humans should never use medicine dispensed for their pets and pets should not be given any medicine dispensed for a human’s use.

If you accidentally ingest a pet medication, call your physician or the national Poison Control Center hotline at 800-222-1222.

Monitoring

Your veterinarian may recommend a complete blood count and blood chemistry panel periodically while on this medication, especially with long-term use. Your veterinarian may also recommend additional routine testing depending on your pet’s individual needs and other medications they may be on.

Call Your Vet If

• Severe side effects are seen (see above)

• Your pet’s condition worsens or does not improve with treatment

• You see or suspect an overdose

• You have additional questions or concerns about the use of Galliprant

Galliprant Overdose Information

The most common signs of overdose of Galliprant are vomiting, loss of appetite, and changes in stool (diarrhea, soft stool, or mucus stool). Decreased blood protein levels and elevated liver related enzymes may be observed, especially with chronic overdose.

If you suspect an overdose, immediately contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center. Consultation fees often apply.

Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661

ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435

Galliprant Storage

Galliprant should be stored at controlled room temperatures at or below 86 F. Keep the container tightly closed to protect from moisture and light. Always confirm storage requirements by reviewing the label.

Keep out of reach of children and pets.