Carprofen is a NSAID or Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. It works by inhibiting an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX). This results in lower production of a substance called prostaglandins. By reducing prostaglandin levels, carprofen helps to control pain. Carprofen is a preferential COX 2 inhibitor, with higher ratio of COX 2 to COX 1 inhibition. This is associated with good pain control (analgesic property) with minimal risk of side effects associated with COX 1 inhibition (minimal risk of bleeding).

Meloxicam is a NSAID or Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that can be used in dogs 6 months or older. It works in the same way as Carprofen (inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) resulting in lower production of prostaglandins, and as a result provides pain control. However, the ratio of COX 2 inhibition to COX 1 inhibition is lower than that of Carprofen.