Dr. Robin Downing podcast spotlights OA pain management beyond NSAIDs

Clinician’s Brief has published a sponsored podcast episode, “Osteoarthritis Pain: Beyond NSAIDs,” featuring pain specialist Dr. Robin Downing and host Dr. Beth Molleson. The episode, sponsored by PRN Pharmacal, focuses on practical strategies for recognizing and managing osteoarthritis pain in companion animals, with an emphasis on more complete pain-control plans and better conversations with pet parents about subtle signs of chronic pain. That message also fits with other recent Clinician’s Brief podcast coverage on mobility and joint health, where rehab specialist Dr. Matt Brunke emphasized that mobility problems are a major quality-of-life issue in both dogs and cats and that management needs to extend beyond medications and supplements alone. (cliniciansbrief.com)

Why it matters: For veterinary professionals, the discussion lands at a time when osteoarthritis management is getting more complex. AAHA’s pain guidance still positions NSAIDs as a core option for canine OA, while also highlighting newer tools such as grapiprant, anti-NGF monoclonal antibodies, and adjuncts like amantadine within a broader chronic-pain framework. Recent review literature likewise emphasizes individualized, multimodal plans that combine pharmacology with monitoring, rehab, weight management, and client education rather than relying on a single drug class. Brunke’s mobility-focused discussion adds another practical layer: cats are often underrecognized despite common obesity- and age-related OA, and preserving function may require environmental changes, activity support, and rehabilitation strategies alongside drug therapy. (aaha.org)

What to watch: Expect continued attention on how practices balance newer OA therapies, safety monitoring, rehab and mobility support, and pet parent communication as chronic pain protocols evolve. (fda.gov)