Previcox
General Drug Information and Indications
Firocoxib (COX-2 selective NSAID) for osteoarthritis pain and perioperative pain in dogs.
Highly COX-2 selective NSAID (firocoxib). Mechanism: >300:1 selectivity for COX-2 inhibition → reduces inflammatory prostaglandin E2 with minimal effect on COX-1 gastric and platelet prostaglandins. For dogs: osteoarthritis pain and perioperative pain. FDA-approved; once-daily chewable tablet.
Key information
Firocoxib — COX-2 NSAID for dogs. See firocoxib entry. Chewable tablet. Do not use in cats. Administer with food. Do not combine with other NSAIDs.
How to Give this Medication
Oral chewable tablet (dogs): Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. Once daily. Use correct body weight dose. Scored tablets may be split. Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
Administer as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule. Never double up doses to make up for a missed one. Administer with food.
Side Effects
GI: vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, gastric ulceration. Renal: azotemia with dehydration. Hepatotoxicity (monitor liver enzymes). Hematologic: reduced platelet aggregation. Do not combine with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids.
Precautions
For animals
Dogs only. Monitor for GI ulceration; use with caution in animals with GI disease. Monitor renal function, hydration status, and urine output. Monitor liver enzymes with prolonged use. Do not use concurrently with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids. Baseline and periodic blood work recommended.
For people handling this medication
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). COX-2 NSAID — Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. after handling. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian immediately. Firocoxib NSAID overdose causes GI ulceration and kidney injury. Supportive care required.
Previcox dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PREVICOX 227MG TABLET | 227 MG | Tablet | 1 | Commercial |
| PREVICOX 57MG TABLET | 57 MG | Tablet | 1 | Commercial |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual – Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs in Animals (https://www.merckvetmanual.com/pharmacology/inflammation/nonsteroidal-anti-inflammatory-drugs-in-animals); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)