What common pain management medication is often used in veterinary medicine?

Meloxicam is a commonly used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) in veterinary medicine, particularly for managing pain and inflammation in dogs and cats. It is favored due to its effectiveness in treating osteoarthritis and other musculoskeletal disorders, as well as being used for pain management post-surgery. The medication works by inhibiting enzymes that are responsible for the production of prostaglandins, which are compounds that promote inflammation, pain, and fever.

When considering the other options, ibuprofen and acetaminophen are not recommended for use in pets due to their potential toxicity and adverse effects. Aspirin can be used in veterinary medicine, but it is less common than meloxicam, mainly because of the availability of more effective and safer alternatives like meloxicam, which has a more favorable safety profile and longer duration of action. Thus, meloxicam is the preferred choice for pain management in veterinary settings.