Previcox for Dogs

What is Previcox

Previcox is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for pain, inflammation, and discomfort of joints caused by osteoarthritis in dogs ^{[1, 3]}. Available as flavored chewable tablets, it may as well be prescribed for relieving pain and inflammation following orthopedic and soft-tissue surgery ^{[1, 2]}.

Can dogs safely take Previcox

Previcox is approved by the FDA for use in dogs and may be prescribed by vets as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic medicine ^{[1, 2]}. Studies have shown it to be effective and safe for dogs with osteoarthritis even after long-term use ^[4].

Quick Information
Previcox for Dogs	Generic name (active ingredients): Firocoxib [1] Brand name: Previcox ® [1] Type: Cyclooxygenase-inhibiting class, non-narcotic NSAID [2] Who can take it: Dogs [2] FDA approved: Yes [1] Availability: Prescription medication [1] Form: 57 mg, 227 mg chewable tablets [1, 3]

How does it work in dogs

The active ingredient firocoxib interferes with the functioning of the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme, preventing the production of fatty acids known as prostaglandins, which are responsible for pain, inflammation, and fever ^{[2, 3, 8]}. However, it promotes the action of COX-1 enzyme, thereby helping in protecting the stomach lining, supporting kidney health, and promoting platelet production ^[3].

Previcox dosage: how much to give to dogs

Follow your veterinarian’s instructions regarding the dose, the normally prescribed dosage being 2.27 mg/lb (5.0 mg/kg) given once daily for osteoarthritis ^{[1, 2]}. For relieving postoperative pain and discomfort, it may be administered for 3 days ^[2]. Since these chewable tablets are scored with a groove, the pills may be split in half, preferably with food to reduce the risk of stomach upset ^[1].

Previcox starts working within a few hours of administering the initial dose ^[7].

If you have missed a dose, give it as early as possible but do not administer two doses at the same time.

Possible Side effects

While decreased appetite and vomiting are commonly experienced ^[1], look out for the following signs of drug intolerance that might as well occur due to Previcox overdose ^[1] in your dog:

• Diarrhea (flatulence, an urgency to defecate) ^[1]
• Increased water consumption and urination ^{[1, 2]}
• Tarry stools ^[1]
• Lethargy ^[2]
• Incoordination (stepping oddly, taking large steps, body tremors, swaying of the torso) ^[1]
• Behavioral changes (increased activity level, or aggression) ^[1]

Moreover, taking large amounts of Previcox may lead to complications like stiffening, jerking, drooling, muscle twitching (associated with seizure), and yellowing of the eyes, skin, and gums (associated with jaundice) ^{[1] [2]}.

If your pet has had any of these symptoms, contact your vet immediately.

Contraindications: When not to give Previcox to your dog

Inform the vet about any pre-existing health issues in your dog. It is not prescribed to dogs that are:

• Allergic to NSAIDs ^[1]
• Pregnant or lactating ^[1]
• Less than 7 months old or less than 12.5 lbs of weight ^[1]
• Dehydrated, with kidney, liver, or heart disorders ^[1]
• On a diuretic therapy

For avoiding possible drug interactions, Previcox should not be given to dogs under the following medications:

• NSAIDs such as Meloxicam (Metacam), Deracoxib (Deramaxx), Etodolac (Etogesic), Carprofen (Rimadyl), or Aspirin ^[1]
• Corticosteroids including prednisone, dexamethasone, triamcinolone, or cortisone ^[1]
• Diuretics or ACE (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme) inhibitors ^[5]
• Potentially nephrotoxic drugs ^[5]

Some vets ^{[10, 11]} have reported that Previcox can be given along with common allergy and pain medications including Benadryl and Tramadol.