PupkeeperToxicEmergency
Dog ate NSAID pain pills (mefenamic acid, diclofenac, celecoxib)? Toxic: what to do now
Toxic. Human NSAID pain pills, like mefenamic acid and diclofenac, can cause severe stomach ulcers and sudden kidney failure in dogs.
If your dog ate or touched this, call your vet or a pet poison line now
United States
Poison lines in other countries: United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Belgium, France, JM, PR, Singapore, Switzerland, TT, VI
NSAID pain pills (mefenamic acid, diclofenac, celecoxib) and dogs: key facts
What should I do if my dog ate NSAID pain pills (mefenamic acid, diclofenac, celecoxib)?
- Call your vet or a pet poison line now.
- Keep the packaging and bring it with you, so the vet knows how much was eaten.
- Don't wait for signs. The sooner treatment starts, the safer it is.
Don't
- Don't make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
- Never give a human NSAID to your dog unless your vet tells you to.
Symptoms to watch for
- Vomiting, sometimes with blood
- Diarrhea
- Black, tarry stool
- Not eating
- Low energy
- Belly pain
- Changes in thirst or peeing
- Seizures
Why
These are NSAIDs (anti-inflammatory pain relievers), the same drug family as ibuprofen. Human NSAIDs can be extremely dangerous to dogs, and they mainly harm the gut and kidneys.
Sources
- Pet Poison Helpline: NSAIDs
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Toxicoses From Human Analgesics in Animals
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Poisonings from Human Prescription Drugs
Guide reviewed 9 October 2026. Page updated 7 November 2026.
General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.