Galliprant for Dogs: The Gentler NSAID for Arthritis Pain

Last updated: May 6, 2026

If your dog has been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, your veterinarian has likely mentioned Galliprant as a treatment option. It is one of the newer pain management medications available for dogs, and it has earned genuine attention for its different mechanism of action — one that may be easier on the stomach, kidneys, and liver than older anti-inflammatories. But “newer” and “gentler” do not mean “without nuance.” Here is a thorough, practical look at Galliprant for dogs, what it does, how it compares to other options, and what you should know before your dog starts taking it.

What Is Galliprant (Grapiprant)?

Galliprant is the brand name for grapiprant, a prescription anti-inflammatory and pain-relief medication approved by the FDA specifically for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs. It was approved in 2016 and is manufactured by Elanco Animal Health. Galliprant comes in flavored chewable tablets in three strengths — 20 mg, 60 mg, and 100 mg — making it relatively easy to administer to most dogs.

Unlike traditional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as carprofen (Rimadyl) or meloxicam (Metacam), Galliprant belongs to a different drug class entirely. It is classified as a piprant — a prostaglandin receptor antagonist. That distinction is not just a pharmaceutical technicality. It fundamentally changes how the drug interacts with the inflammatory process in your dog’s body, and it is the primary reason veterinarians consider Galliprant a potentially gentler option for long-term arthritis management.

How Galliprant Works: The Piprant Class and the EP4 Receptor

To understand why Galliprant is different, it helps to understand, at a basic level, how inflammation and pain work in arthritis.

When a joint is damaged or degenerating — as it is in osteoarthritis — the body produces chemicals called prostaglandins. One particular prostaglandin, called prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), plays a central role in triggering pain, swelling, and inflammation. PGE2 does its work by binding to specific receptors on cells, and one of the most important of those receptors for arthritis pain is called the EP4 receptor.

Traditional NSAIDs work upstream. They block an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX) — specifically COX-1 and COX-2 — which reduces the production of prostaglandins broadly. The problem is that COX enzymes are involved in many protective functions throughout the body. COX-1, for example, helps maintain the protective lining of the stomach and supports normal kidney blood flow and platelet function. When you block COX enzymes wholesale, you reduce pain and inflammation, but you also interfere with those protective processes. That is why traditional NSAIDs carry well-documented risks of gastrointestinal ulceration, kidney damage, and liver stress.

Galliprant takes a fundamentally different approach. Instead of blocking the production of prostaglandins at the source, it works downstream — at the receptor level. Grapiprant specifically blocks the EP4 receptor, preventing PGE2 from binding to it and triggering the pain and inflammatory cascade. Crucially, it does this without broadly inhibiting COX enzymes, which means the body’s other protective prostaglandin pathways remain largely intact.

Think of it this way: traditional NSAIDs shut down the entire factory that makes prostaglandins. Galliprant lets the factory keep running but blocks the specific loading dock where the pain signal gets delivered. The result is targeted pain relief with, in theory and in clinical data, a reduced impact on the stomach, kidneys, and liver.

What Is Galliprant Used For?

Galliprant is FDA-approved for one specific indication: the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis in dogs, affecting an estimated 20 percent or more of dogs over the age of one year, with prevalence increasing significantly in older and larger-breed dogs.

Signs of osteoarthritis in dogs include stiffness after rest, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, limping or favoring a leg, reduced interest in play or walks, difficulty rising from a lying position, and behavioral changes such as irritability when touched in certain areas. If your dog is showing any of these signs, a veterinary evaluation is the appropriate first step. If you are still in the process of finding your next companion, our adoption page can help you connect with dogs in need of a home — and your veterinarian can help you stay ahead of joint health from the beginning.

While Galliprant is specifically labeled for osteoarthritis, some veterinarians may prescribe it off-label for other types of pain or inflammation. However, it is not typically used for acute surgical pain or short-term injury recovery, where other medications may be more appropriate.

Galliprant Dosing for Dogs

Galliprant is administered once daily, at a dose of approximately 2 mg per kilogram of body weight (roughly 0.9 mg per pound). It should be given with or without food, though Elanco’s labeling notes that the drug can be given without regard to meals. That said, some veterinarians recommend giving it on an empty stomach, at least one hour before feeding, for optimal absorption — so follow your vet’s specific guidance.

The three available tablet sizes (20 mg, 60 mg, and 100 mg) are scored, allowing for some flexibility in matching the dose to your dog’s weight. Your veterinarian will determine the correct dose based on your dog’s weight and overall health. Do not adjust the dose on your own, and do not split or combine tablets without your vet’s direction.

Galliprant is approved for use in dogs that are at least 8 weeks old and weigh at least 8 pounds (3.6 kg). It is intended for ongoing daily use in managing chronic arthritis pain, not as a short-course medication.

Side Effects of Galliprant: Milder Than Traditional NSAIDs

One of the main reasons veterinarians reach for Galliprant is its side effect profile, which clinical studies suggest is milder than that of traditional NSAIDs — particularly regarding gastrointestinal effects.

The most commonly reported side effects in clinical trials and post-market surveillance include:

• Vomiting — the most frequently reported side effect, though it is typically mild and transient
• Diarrhea or soft stools
• Decreased appetite or anorexia
• Lethargy

These side effects are generally mild and often resolve without intervention. In the FDA field study that supported Galliprant’s approval, the incidence of vomiting and soft stools was higher in treated dogs compared to placebo, but the episodes were largely self-limiting.

What is notably different from traditional NSAIDs is that Galliprant appears to carry a lower risk of gastrointestinal ulceration. Because it does not broadly inhibit COX-1, the prostaglandin pathways that protect the stomach lining remain more intact. This does not mean GI side effects are impossible — clearly, vomiting still occurs — but the risk of serious ulceration and GI bleeding is considered to be reduced compared to drugs like carprofen or meloxicam.

If your dog vomits repeatedly, stops eating, develops dark or tarry stools, or shows signs of abdominal pain after starting Galliprant, contact your veterinarian promptly.

Kidney and Liver Safety

One of the most significant concerns with long-term NSAID use in dogs is the potential for kidney and liver damage. Traditional NSAIDs that inhibit COX enzymes can reduce blood flow to the kidneys and place metabolic stress on the liver, particularly in older dogs or dogs with pre-existing organ compromise.

Galliprant’s mechanism — blocking the EP4 receptor rather than inhibiting COX — is thought to spare the kidneys and liver to a greater degree. In clinical studies, grapiprant did not produce the same patterns of renal or hepatic enzyme elevations commonly seen with traditional NSAIDs. This makes it a particularly appealing option for dogs with early-stage kidney disease, mildly elevated liver values, or other situations where a traditional NSAID might be considered too risky.

However, “gentler” is not the same as “risk-free.” Galliprant is still processed by the body, and any medication can cause unexpected reactions in individual dogs. Regular monitoring of kidney and liver values through blood work remains important, especially in dogs on long-term therapy. Your veterinarian will likely recommend baseline blood work before starting Galliprant and periodic rechecks — typically every six to twelve months — to ensure everything remains stable.

Galliprant vs. Rimadyl vs. Meloxicam

The three most commonly prescribed anti-inflammatories for canine osteoarthritis are Galliprant (grapiprant), Rimadyl (carprofen), and Metacam (meloxicam). Here is how they compare:

Rimadyl (carprofen) has been the workhorse of canine arthritis management for over two decades. It is well-studied, widely available, generally effective, and significantly less expensive than Galliprant. For many dogs with healthy kidneys and livers and no history of GI sensitivity, Rimadyl remains an excellent choice. Its main drawbacks are the twice-daily dosing schedule and a somewhat higher incidence of GI and hepatic side effects compared to Galliprant.

Meloxicam (Metacam) is a COX-2 preferential NSAID, meaning it leans toward blocking the COX-2 enzyme — the one more directly involved in inflammation — while having somewhat less impact on COX-1. This gives it a marginally improved GI safety profile compared to non-selective COX inhibitors, though the risk is not eliminated. Like Rimadyl, it is considerably less expensive than Galliprant.

Galliprant offers the most targeted mechanism and the most favorable safety profile on paper, but it is also the most expensive option by a meaningful margin and may not provide stronger pain relief than either Rimadyl or meloxicam for all dogs. In practice, the choice often comes down to your dog’s individual risk factors, health history, and your household’s budget.

How Much Does Galliprant Cost?

Galliprant is noticeably more expensive than traditional NSAIDs. Prices vary by region, pharmacy, and tablet strength, but as a general guide, a one-month supply typically costs between $40 and $120 or more, depending on the dog’s size and therefore the tablet strength required. Larger dogs need higher doses and correspondingly more expensive prescriptions.

For comparison, a month’s supply of generic carprofen might cost $15 to $40, and meloxicam can be even less expensive in its liquid formulation. The price difference adds up considerably over months and years of chronic arthritis management.

Some strategies for managing cost include asking your veterinarian about online veterinary pharmacies (which sometimes offer lower prices than in-clinic dispensing), checking for manufacturer rebates or loyalty programs from Elanco, and discussing with your vet whether Galliprant is truly necessary for your dog or whether a less expensive NSAID might be equally safe given your dog’s health profile. If you are exploring breeds and want to understand which dogs are more prone to joint issues, our dog breeds directory includes breed-specific health information that can help you plan ahead.

Which Dogs Should Not Take Galliprant?

Galliprant is not appropriate for every dog. The following dogs should not take Galliprant or should use it only with extreme caution and close veterinary supervision:

• Dogs with known hypersensitivity to grapiprant — as with any medication, allergic reactions are possible
• Dogs weighing less than 8 pounds — Galliprant has not been evaluated for safety in very small dogs
• Puppies under 8 weeks of age
• Dogs with severe kidney or liver disease — while Galliprant is gentler on these organs than traditional NSAIDs, it is not free of risk, and dogs with significant organ compromise need careful evaluation
• Breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs — safety has not been established in these populations
• Dogs currently taking other NSAIDs or corticosteroids — combining anti-inflammatory medications significantly increases the risk of serious GI and organ side effects. A washout period is required when switching between anti-inflammatory drugs

Your veterinarian will assess your dog’s full health picture — including blood work, current medications, and medical history — before prescribing Galliprant. Do not start or stop any medication without professional guidance.

Long-Term Monitoring While on Galliprant

Because osteoarthritis is a chronic condition and Galliprant is intended for ongoing daily use, long-term monitoring is an essential part of responsible treatment. Even though Galliprant has a favorable safety profile, “lower risk” does not mean “no risk,” and any medication given over months or years warrants periodic health checks.

Most veterinarians recommend the following monitoring schedule:

• Baseline blood work before starting Galliprant — this establishes your dog’s normal kidney and liver values for future comparison
• Recheck blood work at 2 to 4 weeks after starting the medication to catch any early adverse reactions
• Routine blood work every 6 to 12 months while on ongoing therapy, checking a complete blood count (CBC) and a chemistry panel that includes kidney values (BUN, creatinine) and liver enzymes (ALT, ALP)
• Regular veterinary exams to assess your dog’s pain levels, mobility, weight, and overall quality of life

If blood work shows changes in kidney or liver values, your veterinarian may adjust the dose, add supportive care, or switch to a different treatment strategy. Catching changes early is the entire point of monitoring.

Combining Galliprant With Other Arthritis Treatments

One of Galliprant’s practical advantages is that it can often be safely combined with other arthritis treatments that are not anti-inflammatory drugs. A multimodal approach — using several therapies that address pain and joint health through different mechanisms — is widely considered the gold standard for managing canine osteoarthritis.

Treatments that are commonly used alongside Galliprant include:

• Joint supplements — glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids (particularly EPA and DHA from fish oil) can support joint health and may have mild anti-inflammatory effects of their own
• Weight management — arguably the single most impactful intervention for arthritis. Reducing excess body weight decreases mechanical stress on joints and reduces systemic inflammation
• Physical rehabilitation — underwater treadmill therapy, therapeutic exercises, range-of-motion work, and controlled leash walks can maintain muscle mass and joint mobility
• Adequan (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan) — an injectable disease-modifying osteoarthritis drug (DMOAD) that helps protect cartilage and is commonly used in combination with pain medications
• Laser therapy and acupuncture — increasingly available through veterinary rehabilitation specialists and may provide additional pain relief
• Environmental modifications — orthopedic beds, ramps instead of stairs, raised food bowls, and non-slip flooring can meaningfully improve daily comfort

What you should not combine Galliprant with is another NSAID (such as Rimadyl or meloxicam) or a corticosteroid (such as prednisone or dexamethasone). Stacking anti-inflammatory medications dramatically increases the risk of GI ulceration, kidney injury, and other serious complications. If your veterinarian wants to switch your dog from one anti-inflammatory to another, they will prescribe an appropriate washout period — typically 5 to 7 days — between medications.

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly does Galliprant work?

Many dog owners report seeing improvements in comfort and mobility within the first week of treatment, and some notice changes within a few days. However, the full effect may take one to two weeks to become apparent. If you see no improvement after two to three weeks of consistent daily use, discuss alternatives with your veterinarian.

Can Galliprant be given with food?

Galliprant can be administered with or without food. The manufacturer’s labeling does not require it to be given with a meal. Some veterinarians suggest giving it on an empty stomach — at least one hour before a meal — for optimal absorption, while others find that giving it with a small amount of food reduces the chance of mild stomach upset. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendation for your specific dog.

Is Galliprant a steroid?

No. Galliprant is not a steroid and does not carry the side effects associated with corticosteroids, such as increased thirst, urination, appetite, or immune suppression. It is a non-steroidal prostaglandin receptor antagonist — a distinct class from both steroids and traditional NSAIDs.

Can Galliprant be used in cats?

Galliprant is currently approved only for use in dogs. It has not been approved for cats, and feline pain management involves different medications and considerations. Do not give Galliprant to a cat unless specifically directed by a veterinarian.

What happens if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not double up on doses.

Is Galliprant better than Rimadyl?

Neither drug is universally “better.” Galliprant has a more favorable safety profile, particularly regarding GI, kidney, and liver side effects, which makes it a strong choice for dogs at higher risk of organ complications — including older dogs and those with mild pre-existing conditions. Rimadyl is well-proven, widely available, and significantly more affordable. For many otherwise healthy dogs, Rimadyl provides excellent pain relief at a fraction of the cost. The best choice depends on your dog’s individual health, risk factors, and your veterinarian’s assessment.

Does Galliprant require a prescription?

Yes. Galliprant is a prescription medication and cannot be purchased over the counter. You will need a valid prescription from a licensed veterinarian, which can then be filled at your vet’s office or at an authorized online veterinary pharmacy.