IMPA or Immune-Mediated Polyarthritis in Dogs
Immune-Mediated Polyarthritis, or IMPA, is an inflammatory disease of the movable joints that affects dogs. "Immune-mediated" means the disease is brought about by the dog's own immune system, and "polyarthritis" means inflammation in more than one joint. With an overactive immune system, the body can produce an overabundance of white blood cells and attack itself — similar to the achy feeling we get with the flu. In IMPA, white blood cells function improperly and attack healthy joints, leading to pain, inflammation, and difficulty walking.
IMPA Overview
There are two types of IMPA, which veterinarians categorize as either erosive or non-erosive. Erosive IMPA is less common — affecting only about one percent of dogs with the disease — and is similar to rheumatoid arthritis in humans, destroying cartilage as well as bone. Non-erosive IMPA is the more common form and is not joint-destructive. Veterinarians may determine the type through x-rays, blood tests, urine cultures, and sometimes joint taps. Because it's an autoimmune disease, the vet will run tests to rule out an underlying cause such as cancer or infection; if none is found, the condition is termed "autoimmune" polyarthritis.
The reason for this misdirected attack isn't completely clear. Some breeds are more susceptible, and it's thought IMPA can develop due to antibiotic use and even as a side effect of certain vaccines. Age, diet, obesity, and stress may also play roles. Joint disease is common across all ages and breeds — in fact, about one in five dogs is believed to have some form of it — and while IMPA can affect dogs of all sizes, it's more common in larger breeds such as Akitas, Shar-Peis, German Shepherds, and Bernese Mountain Dogs. The National Institutes of Health has published an in-depth study of IMPA in which 83 cases were studied over an 11-year period.
IMPA Signs and Symptoms
IMPA causes achy, sore joints due to inflammation. Signs your pet may have IMPA include a reluctance to walk, difficulty with stairs, whimpering when walking, or appearing to "walk on eggshells." Other symptoms can include lack of appetite, low-grade fever, reluctance to play, and mild joint swelling. The most common symptom is joint pain. If you suspect your dog may have IMPA or is experiencing these symptoms, it's important to seek veterinary help to determine the cause.
IMPA Treatment for Dogs
Maintaining a healthy weight and diet is important, and you may want to consider a daily joint supplement, especially as your pet ages. If your dog has been diagnosed with IMPA, your vet may prescribe medication.
Steroids. A common medication prescribed for IMPA is a steroid such as Prednisone or Prednisolone, used for its anti-inflammatory properties. It can typically only be used temporarily, since prolonged use may damage tissue such as the stomach lining and carries other side effects, including vomiting, diarrhea, aggression or behavioral changes, and lethargy.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). Another option is an NSAID. Popular examples include Tramadol, Rimadyl (carprofen), Metacam (meloxicam), Novox (carprofen), Galliprant, or Previcox (firocoxib). NSAIDs provide temporary relief and are not without long-term side effects — mainly seen in the digestive tract, kidneys, and liver.
Daily Joint Support
Using prescribed medications is a balancing act, weighing benefits against risks. Alongside your veterinarian's care, a daily joint supplement can be part of supporting your dog's overall joint health. Flexpet is an all-natural daily supplement for dogs and cats, formulated to nourish the joints, support healthy cartilage, support the joint's natural lubricating fluid, and support a healthy inflammatory response. Flexpet is a supplement, not a medication — it isn't intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent IMPA or any other disease, and it isn't a substitute for veterinary care. Flexpet contains:
- CM8® (Cetyl Myristoleate) — a naturally occurring fatty acid studied for its role in supporting joint comfort and a healthy inflammatory response.
- Glucosamine Sulfate Potassium — a naturally occurring compound that plays a key role in cartilage construction and the incorporation of sulfur into cartilage.
- MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) — a naturally occurring sulfur compound; sulfur is needed by the body to form connective tissue.
- Hydrolyzed Collagen Type II — a building block of the cartilage that cushions the joints, providing tissue-oriented nutritional support.
- Bromelain — a plant enzyme found in pineapple that supports a healthy inflammatory response.
- Enzyme Blend — helps the body absorb larger molecules like CM8® so your pet gets the most from each serving.
It can be upsetting to learn your dog has a disease like IMPA, but with proper veterinary care — and daily joint support as part of the routine — your dog can continue to live a long, fulfilling life.
The Flexpet Guarantee
We back Flexpet with a 90-day satisfaction guarantee. Try a 90-day supply with no financial risk — if you're not satisfied with the results, simply return your first order (up to three empty pouches/bottles) for a full refund of the purchase price, less shipping and handling.
Questions? Our customer care team is available M–F, 9am–6pm EST at 1-800-505-0575, or by email. Flexcin International, Inc.