🐾 The 10 Best Galliprant Alternatives: Everything You Need to Know for Pain Management in Dogs

Galliprant is a popular and effective medication for managing arthritis and joint pain in dogs, especially due to its safety profile for long-term use. However, Galliprant may not be the right fit for every dog, and there are plenty of alternatives available that target different types of pain or provide relief in complementary ways. Whether your dog is experiencing arthritis pain, inflammation, or even nerve-related discomfort, it’s important to know your options and what works best for their specific needs.

🗝️ Key Takeaways: Quick Answers About Galliprant Alternatives

• Which is best for long-term use? Apoquel and Cytopoint are ideal for long-term management of inflammation and itching, but Carprofen is also great for chronic joint pain.
• What’s the fastest for pain relief? Tramadol and Gabapentin provide rapid pain relief for acute discomfort.
• Can I combine alternatives? Yes, certain medications like Gabapentin can be combined with anti-inflammatories like Meloxicam for better pain control.
• Are there natural alternatives? CBD oil and turmeric are popular natural options with anti-inflammatory properties.
• Which has fewer side effects? Cytopoint and Atopica tend to have fewer side effects, especially for long-term treatment.

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💊 What Are the Best Galliprant Alternatives for Arthritis Pain?

Galliprant is specifically designed to treat arthritis pain in dogs by targeting the EP4 receptor that drives inflammation. However, several other medications can also offer relief from arthritis and joint pain, either by reducing inflammation, alleviating pain, or supporting joint health. Here’s a breakdown of the best alternatives:

1. Carprofen (Rimadyl)

Carprofen is a popular non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain and inflammation in dogs. It’s commonly prescribed for arthritis and post-operative pain, but it requires regular monitoring due to its potential impact on the liver and kidneys.

Medication	How It Works	Best For	💡 Tip
Carprofen	Blocks COX enzymes to reduce inflammation.	Arthritis pain and post-surgical pain.	Best for short-term relief but can be used long-term with monitoring.

💡 Pro Tip: Carprofen is great for managing arthritis pain but requires blood tests to monitor kidney and liver function, especially with long-term use.

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2. Meloxicam (Metacam)

Meloxicam is another NSAID commonly used to manage pain and inflammation in dogs with arthritis. It has a similar action to Carprofen but can be more suitable for some dogs due to its once-daily dosing and liquid formulation, which makes it easier to administer.

Medication	How It Works	Best For	💡 Tip
Meloxicam	Inhibits COX enzymes, reducing pain and inflammation.	Chronic arthritis pain and inflammation.	Comes in a liquid form, making it easier for dogs that struggle with pills.

💡 Pro Tip: If your dog has trouble swallowing pills, Meloxicam’s liquid formulation can make dosing much simpler.

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3. Tramadol

For more severe pain, Tramadol, a synthetic opioid, may be prescribed. While it doesn’t reduce inflammation, it provides powerful pain relief and can be used alongside NSAIDs like Carprofen or Meloxicam for comprehensive pain management.

Medication	How It Works	Best For	💡 Tip
Tramadol	Acts on opioid receptors to reduce pain perception.	Moderate to severe pain relief, especially post-surgical.	Ideal for acute pain or when NSAIDs are insufficient.

💡 Pro Tip: Tramadol is often used for short-term relief but can cause drowsiness or constipation, so keep an eye on your dog’s response.

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4. Gabapentin

Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant that’s often used to treat nerve pain in dogs, but it can also be useful in managing chronic pain when combined with other pain medications like NSAIDs. It’s particularly effective for dogs with arthritis who also have nerve-related pain or spinal conditions.

Medication	How It Works	Best For	💡 Tip
Gabapentin	Modulates nerve signals to reduce pain.	Nerve pain, chronic pain, and arthritis.	Works well in combination with NSAIDs for broader pain relief.

💡 Pro Tip: Gabapentin is often used alongside anti-inflammatories like Meloxicam or Carprofen to tackle multiple types of pain.

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5. Cytopoint

For dogs suffering from inflammatory itching alongside arthritis pain, Cytopoint can provide relief by targeting the specific molecules involved in the itch response. It’s an injectable treatment that offers relief for 4-8 weeks with minimal side effects.

Medication	How It Works	Best For	💡 Tip
Cytopoint	Blocks IL-31 cytokines responsible for itching.	Chronic itching and inflammatory pain.	Best for dogs with concurrent itching and pain due to arthritis or allergies.

💡 Pro Tip: Cytopoint is administered by injection and offers long-lasting relief, making it a great option for dogs that can’t tolerate daily pills.

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🩺 Are There Natural Alternatives to Galliprant?

If you prefer natural remedies for managing your dog’s arthritis or inflammation, there are a few options that offer anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. These alternatives may not work as quickly or as powerfully as prescription medications but can be useful as part of a long-term management plan.

6. CBD Oil

CBD oil is increasingly being used to manage pain and inflammation in dogs. It works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system to help modulate pain and reduce inflammation. CBD is often used alongside other pain medications for chronic conditions like arthritis.

Natural Treatment	How It Works	Best For	💡 Tip
CBD Oil	Interacts with receptors to reduce inflammation and pain.	Chronic arthritis pain and anxiety.	Choose a veterinary-formulated CBD oil for the best results.

💡 Pro Tip: Always use high-quality CBD products formulated for pets, and consult your vet before introducing it to your dog’s regimen.

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7. Turmeric (Curcumin)

Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory that’s commonly used as a supplement to reduce joint pain and stiffness. The active ingredient, curcumin, helps combat inflammation and can improve mobility in dogs with arthritis.

Natural Treatment	How It Works	Best For	💡 Tip
Turmeric	Contains curcumin, which reduces inflammation.	Joint pain and arthritis management.	Combine with fish oil to enhance absorption and anti-inflammatory effects.

💡 Pro Tip: Adding turmeric to your dog’s diet in combination with fish oil or black pepper can boost its absorption and effectiveness.

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🦠 What Are Prescription-Only Alternatives to Galliprant for Long-Term Pain Management?

For dogs that need consistent pain relief but don’t tolerate Galliprant well, other prescription medications can provide similar or more targeted relief, particularly for long-term conditions.

8. Atopica (Cyclosporine)

Atopica is an immunosuppressant primarily used to manage atopic dermatitis, but it also helps reduce chronic inflammation in dogs. For dogs with immune-mediated arthritis or other inflammatory conditions, Atopica can offer relief when other medications fall short.

💡 Pro Tip: Atopica is ideal for dogs with immune-driven pain, but be sure to monitor for immune suppression or infections over time.

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9. Deramaxx

Deramaxx is another NSAID that’s commonly prescribed to manage pain and inflammation in dogs with arthritis or post-operative pain. It’s similar to Galliprant in that it’s an NSAID but focuses on COX-2 inhibition, making it more suitable for inflammation control with less impact on the stomach and kidneys than older NSAIDs.

Medication	How It Works	Best For	💡 Tip
Deramaxx	Inhibits COX-2 enzymes to reduce inflammation.	Arthritis pain and post-surgery pain.	Monitor liver and kidney function during long-term use.

💡 Pro Tip: Deramaxx is often used as a post-operative pain management but can also be a long-term solution for dogs with chronic arthritis.

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🚑 What Are the Best Over-the-Counter (OTC) Alternatives to Galliprant?

While most effective pain management options for dogs are prescription medications, some OTC alternatives can support joint health and alleviate mild pain.

10. Glucosamine & Chondroitin

Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements are widely used to support joint health and reduce stiffness in dogs with arthritis. They don’t provide immediate pain relief, but they help preserve cartilage and improve mobility over time, making them a great supplement to any pain management plan.

OTC Treatment	How It Works	Best For	💡 Tip
Glucosamine & Chondroitin	Supports joint cartilage and reduces stiffness.	Joint health and arthritis management.	Use alongside prescription medications for comprehensive support.

💡 Pro Tip: Glucosamine works best when used consistently and can take several weeks to show improvements in mobility and joint function.

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🏆 Which Galliprant Alternative Is Best for Your Dog?

Choosing the best alternative to Galliprant depends on your dog’s specific pain condition, whether they need inflammatory control, nerve pain relief, or joint support. Here’s a quick guide:

• Carprofen and Meloxicam are ideal for arthritis or post-operative pain.
• Gabapentin works best for nerve-related pain or combined pain syndromes.
• Natural supplements like CBD oil and turmeric are great for supporting long-term joint health.
• For long-term arthritis, Glucosamine is an excellent complementary treatment to any prescribed pain relievers.

💡 Pro Tip: Consult your vet to develop a tailored pain management plan for your dog, incorporating any necessary medications, supplements, or natural alternatives to keep them happy and comfortable.

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🗂️ Key Takeaways for Galliprant Alternatives:

Question	Quick Answer
Which is best for arthritis?	Carprofen, Meloxicam, and Deramaxx work well for arthritis.
What about nerve pain?	Gabapentin is ideal for managing nerve-related pain.
Are natural alternatives effective?	CBD oil and turmeric offer natural anti-inflammatory support.
Can I use OTC supplements?	Yes, Glucosamine and chondroitin help with joint health and stiffness.

By exploring the 10 best alternatives to Galliprant, you can find the right combination of treatments to help your dog stay pain-free and active. 🐕

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Comment 1: “Can I combine Galliprant with CBD oil for my dog’s arthritis?”

Yes, Galliprant can be safely combined with CBD oil to manage arthritis pain in dogs. Galliprant works by specifically targeting the EP4 receptor, which is responsible for inflammation and pain associated with osteoarthritis. Meanwhile, CBD oil interacts with the endocannabinoid system, helping to modulate pain and inflammation through a different mechanism.

Combining the two allows you to address pain on multiple fronts, offering potentially more comprehensive relief for dogs suffering from chronic joint pain. Many dog owners have found that adding CBD oil can help reduce the need for higher doses of prescription medications, allowing for a more natural complement to the treatment plan.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Dosage: When adding CBD oil, start with a low dose and gradually increase it under the supervision of your vet. Make sure the CBD product is formulated for pets and doesn’t contain THC, which is toxic to dogs.
• Effectiveness: CBD oil doesn’t work as quickly as Galliprant, but over time it can help reduce inflammation, ease stiffness, and improve mobility.

💡 Tip: Always consult your vet before introducing CBD oil to ensure it complements your dog’s existing medication regimen. Regularly monitor how your dog responds to the combination, adjusting dosages as needed.

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Comment 2: “Is there a natural alternative to Galliprant that actually works?”

Yes, there are several natural alternatives to Galliprant that can help manage arthritis and joint pain in dogs, although their effectiveness may vary depending on your dog’s condition. While these alternatives may not work as quickly or as powerfully as prescription medications, they are often safer for long-term use and can provide supportive relief when used in conjunction with other treatments.

Here are two notable natural alternatives:

• Turmeric (Curcumin): Turmeric is a powerful natural anti-inflammatory known for its ability to reduce joint pain and stiffness. The active ingredient, curcumin, has been shown to help improve mobility in dogs with arthritis. Combining turmeric with a fat source (like fish oil) or a bit of black pepper enhances its absorption.
• CBD Oil: As mentioned earlier, CBD oil is another great natural option for managing chronic pain and inflammation. It works by interacting with receptors in the endocannabinoid system, offering anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects without the risk of gastrointestinal or organ damage.

Natural Alternative	How It Works	Best For	💡 Tip
Turmeric (Curcumin)	Reduces inflammation and improves joint flexibility.	Arthritis and chronic pain.	Combine with fish oil to boost absorption.
CBD Oil	Modulates pain and inflammation through the endocannabinoid system.	Joint pain, inflammation, and anxiety.	Choose a veterinary-formulated product.

💡 Tip: Natural alternatives work best when used consistently over time. If you’re looking for immediate relief, they may not replace the need for prescription options like Galliprant, but they are great for supporting joint health in the long run.

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Comment 3: “How does Gabapentin compare to Galliprant for managing pain?”

Gabapentin and Galliprant are both effective for managing pain, but they target different types of pain and work in complementary ways.

• Galliprant is an NSAID that works by blocking the EP4 receptor, which is specifically involved in joint inflammation caused by arthritis. It’s ideal for long-term management of chronic joint pain, with fewer side effects than traditional NSAIDs, especially for older dogs or those with kidney/liver concerns.
• Gabapentin, on the other hand, is more effective for managing nerve-related pain or neuropathic pain. It’s often used in dogs with spinal issues, nerve damage, or in cases where there’s chronic pain that’s resistant to NSAIDs alone.

These two medications can be used together in dogs with complex pain conditions, where there’s both inflammatory and neuropathic pain present. For instance, dogs with arthritis and accompanying nerve pain might benefit from combining Galliprant and Gabapentin to get more comprehensive relief.

Medication	How It Works	Best For	💡 Tip
Galliprant	Reduces inflammation by targeting the EP4 receptor.	Arthritis and joint pain.	Great for long-term arthritis management.
Gabapentin	Reduces nerve signal transmission to alleviate pain.	Nerve pain and spinal issues.	Ideal for neuropathic or complex pain.

💡 Tip: Gabapentin works well in combination with Galliprant for dogs with both joint pain and nerve pain, providing a more complete pain management strategy.

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Comment 4: “Can glucosamine really help with arthritis, or is it just a supplement hype?”

Glucosamine isn’t just hype—it’s a widely used and often effective supplement for supporting joint health and managing arthritis in dogs. While glucosamine doesn’t provide immediate pain relief, like Galliprant or NSAIDs, it plays a vital role in maintaining cartilage and improving joint function over time.

Here’s how it works:

• Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound that helps form cartilage, the tissue that cushions joints. When your dog has arthritis, this cartilage breaks down, leading to pain and stiffness.
• Chondroitin, often included with glucosamine supplements, works to reduce cartilage degradation and may help reduce inflammation.

When given consistently over time, glucosamine can help slow the progression of arthritis by protecting the joints and promoting better mobility. While it’s not a substitute for pain medications, it’s an excellent long-term support for joint health and can be used alongside medications like Galliprant.

Supplement	How It Works	Best For	💡 Tip
Glucosamine & Chondroitin	Supports cartilage health and reduces joint stiffness.	Chronic arthritis and joint support.	Use as part of a comprehensive treatment plan with NSAIDs.

💡 Tip: Glucosamine works best when used consistently for several weeks to months. Combining it with medications like Galliprant or Carprofen can improve your dog’s overall joint health and comfort.

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Comment 5: “Is it safe to use Carprofen as an alternative to Galliprant for long-term arthritis treatment?”

Carprofen (commonly known by the brand name Rimadyl) is a widely used NSAID for managing arthritis and joint pain in dogs. It’s a solid alternative to Galliprant for long-term use, but it does come with a few important considerations.

While Carprofen effectively reduces inflammation and pain by inhibiting COX enzymes, it impacts both COX-1 and COX-2. COX-1 enzymes play a role in protecting the stomach lining and maintaining kidney function, which is why Carprofen can pose a higher risk of gastric ulcers, kidney damage, and liver issues in some dogs, especially with long-term use.

In contrast, Galliprant targets the EP4 receptor specifically, reducing joint inflammation without affecting the COX enzymes, making it safer for long-term use in senior dogs or those with kidney/liver issues.

If your vet prescribes Carprofen for long-term arthritis treatment, they’ll likely recommend regular blood tests to monitor your dog’s liver and kidney function. For many dogs, Carprofen is safe and effective with appropriate monitoring.

Medication	How It Works	Best For	💡 Tip
Carprofen	Inhibits COX enzymes to reduce pain and inflammation.	Arthritis and post-surgery pain.	Best for short- to medium-term use with close monitoring.

💡 Tip: Carprofen is effective but requires routine blood work for long-term use to ensure it doesn’t impact the liver or kidneys. If your dog has existing organ issues, Galliprant may be the safer choice.

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Comment 6: “How do I know when to switch from Galliprant to a different arthritis treatment?”

Switching from Galliprant to another treatment depends on several factors, including how well your dog is responding to Galliprant and whether any side effects or tolerance are developing over time. Here are some signs that it might be time to consider an alternative:

• Ineffectiveness: If you notice that Galliprant is no longer providing adequate relief, and your dog’s pain or stiffness has worsened despite treatment, it may be time to explore other medications like Carprofen or Gabapentin for more comprehensive pain management.
• Side Effects: Though Galliprant is generally safer than traditional NSAIDs, some dogs may experience diarrhea, vomiting, or lethargy. If these side effects persist or worsen, your vet may suggest switching to another medication.
• Additional Pain: If your dog develops nerve pain in addition to arthritis, combining Gabapentin or switching to a multi-modal treatment approach could provide better overall pain relief.

💡 Tip: Work closely with your vet to monitor how well Galliprant is managing your dog’s pain. If your dog’s condition progresses or side effects arise, it may be worth exploring alternatives like Carprofen, Gabapentin, or even natural remedies like CBD oil to enhance their pain management strategy.

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Comment 7: “Is Galliprant safe for senior dogs, or should I switch to another medication?”

Galliprant is one of the safest options available for senior dogs with arthritis. Its ability to target the EP4 receptor specifically—responsible for inflammation and pain without affecting other essential pathways—makes it much gentler on the liver, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract compared to traditional NSAIDs like Carprofen or Meloxicam.

Here’s why Galliprant is well-suited for senior dogs:

• Organ-Sparing: Senior dogs are often more vulnerable to medications that affect the kidneys or liver. Galliprant avoids inhibiting COX enzymes, which are involved in protecting these organs, making it a safer long-term option.
• Minimal Side Effects: While side effects like vomiting or diarrhea can occur, they are generally less frequent and less severe than with other NSAIDs. Most senior dogs tolerate Galliprant well, even with chronic use.

However, in some cases, senior dogs may develop conditions or experience symptoms that require switching medications:

• Declining Effectiveness: If your senior dog’s arthritis pain worsens despite Galliprant use, it might be time to explore other options like Cytopoint, Gabapentin, or Tramadol for more comprehensive pain relief.
• Additional Conditions: If your dog has developed nerve pain or other concurrent health conditions, your vet may suggest combining Galliprant with a different class of medication, such as Gabapentin, or switching to an alternative entirely.

💡 Tip: For most senior dogs, Galliprant is a highly safe and effective long-term solution. Always discuss any changes in your dog’s condition with your vet, who may recommend bloodwork to ensure their organs remain healthy over time.

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Comment 8: “Can Galliprant be combined with supplements like fish oil or glucosamine?”

Yes, Galliprant can be safely combined with supplements like fish oil and glucosamine. In fact, many veterinarians recommend this combination for dogs with arthritis to provide more comprehensive joint support. These supplements offer anti-inflammatory and cartilage-protective benefits that complement Galliprant’s ability to reduce pain and inflammation.

Here’s how they work together:

• Galliprant: Reduces inflammation and pain by targeting the EP4 receptor. It’s great for managing the symptoms of arthritis, providing relief from discomfort and stiffness.
• Fish Oil: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil helps reduce inflammation throughout the body, including the joints. It can improve mobility and reduce stiffness over time. Omega-3s also support heart and skin health, making them a great addition for overall wellness.
• Glucosamine & Chondroitin: These joint supplements help rebuild cartilage, improve joint lubrication, and slow the progression of joint degeneration. While they don’t provide immediate relief like Galliprant, they work over time to support joint health and may even reduce the need for higher doses of pain medications.

Supplement	How It Works	Best For	💡 Tip
Fish Oil (Omega-3)	Reduces systemic inflammation and supports joint function.	Joint inflammation and stiffness.	Use veterinary-grade fish oil for better absorption.
Glucosamine & Chondroitin	Supports cartilage and reduces joint stiffness.	Arthritis and joint health maintenance.	Works best with long-term use alongside Galliprant.

💡 Tip: Combining Galliprant with glucosamine and fish oil can provide both short-term pain relief and long-term joint protection. Always consult your vet to ensure proper dosing and supplement quality.

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Comment 9: “What are the signs that Galliprant isn’t working for my dog’s arthritis anymore?”

It’s important to monitor how well Galliprant is managing your dog’s arthritis over time. While Galliprant is highly effective for many dogs, there are instances where its effectiveness can diminish, or your dog’s condition may progress, requiring a change in treatment.

Here are some signs that Galliprant may no longer be working effectively:

• Increased Stiffness: If your dog is showing more difficulty moving, especially after resting or waking up, it could indicate that Galliprant isn’t controlling their arthritis as well as it used to.
• Ongoing Pain: If your dog seems uncomfortable despite being on Galliprant, such as whining, limping, or avoiding exercise, it’s a sign that the medication might not be providing sufficient relief.
• Mobility Decline: A noticeable decline in your dog’s ability to walk, climb stairs, or jump could suggest that the arthritis has progressed beyond what Galliprant can manage alone.
• Secondary Symptoms: If your dog develops muscle wasting or joint deformities, it may be time to explore additional treatments, as Galliprant doesn’t address joint deterioration directly—only the inflammation and pain.

In these cases, your vet might recommend combining Galliprant with other medications like Gabapentin or Cytopoint, or switching to a different treatment plan altogether.

💡 Tip: Regular vet checkups and keeping a mobility diary for your dog can help you track whether Galliprant is still working effectively. If you notice any of the above signs, consult your vet to adjust the treatment plan.

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Comment 10: “Can I give my dog Galliprant alongside other pain medications like Tramadol?”

Yes, Galliprant can be safely combined with other pain medications like Tramadol for dogs that need more comprehensive pain management. These two medications work in different ways and can complement each other to provide more effective relief for severe arthritis or multi-faceted pain conditions.

Here’s why this combination works:

• Galliprant: As an NSAID, Galliprant focuses on reducing inflammation by targeting the EP4 receptor, making it great for managing arthritis-related pain and inflammation.
• Tramadol: Tramadol is a synthetic opioid that targets pain perception by acting on the central nervous system. It provides relief from moderate to severe pain but doesn’t reduce inflammation. It’s especially useful for acute pain or in cases where arthritis has progressed and Galliprant alone is no longer enough.

Combining these two medications allows you to address both inflammatory and pain perception pathways, giving your dog more well-rounded relief from arthritis or injury-related pain.

Medication	How It Works	Best For	💡 Tip
Galliprant	Reduces inflammation by targeting the EP4 receptor.	Arthritis and joint pain.	Works well in combination with pain relievers like Tramadol.
Tramadol	Acts on the central nervous system to reduce pain perception.	Moderate to severe pain or acute pain.	Useful for dogs with severe discomfort that need more than NSAIDs.

💡 Tip: When combining medications like Galliprant and Tramadol, always follow your vet’s dosing instructions and monitor your dog for any signs of sedation or gastrointestinal upset.