Previcox® (Brand)

What is Previcox®?
Previcox relieves arthritis pain and inflammation to help your dog maintain his regular activity level and quality of life.

Who is it for?
Previcox is for dogs over 12.5 lbs.

What are the benefits?

Although there is no known cure for arthritis, there is a way to help ease the pain and discomfort associated with arthritis and other joint abnormalities. Previcox relieves arthritis pain and inflammation to help your dog maintain his regular activity level and quality of life.

Available in chewable flavored tablets, which are easy to break apart to give the exact dose your pet needs.

How does Previcox work?
Previcox is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). These types of drugs inhibit the cell's production of chemicals that trigger inflammation. Various NSAIDs work differently on different dogs, so if you think your dog is suffering from the pain of arthritis, discuss the use of a NSAID, including Previcox, with your veterinarian.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
No.

How is it given?
Previcox is given by mouth. It may be given with food to reduce the chance of stomach/intestinal side effects. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian. This medication should only be given to the pet for which it was prescribed. For long-term use, use the lowest dose needed to provide relief.

What results can I expect?
Previcox does not cure a disease but can effectively manage symptoms of pain and inflammation. The response varies from dog to dog but can be dramatic. Pain relieving effects can generally be seen within hours of giving Previcox. Improvement of inflammation can generally be seen after several days. Previcox is not a cure for arthritis, and the signs may come back if Previcox is discontinued.

What form(s) does it come in?
Previcox comes in scored tablets (caplets), which are given by mouth. The tablets can be halved by placing the tablet on a hard surface and pressing down on both sides of the score.

Please click on "More Information" for possible drug and food interactions with this medication.

Pronunciation
PRE-vih-cox

Brand Name
Previcox

Common Drug Name
Firocoxib

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Previcox?
Talk to your veterinarian about what tests and exams may be necessary while your pet is taking Previcox. Also discuss how long the treatment period will be and what type of outcome is expected. You and your veterinarian should talk about any other treatment options that are recommended for your pet. For arthritic pets, weight loss programs, exercise programs, supplements, and other aids may be helpful.

Tell your veterinarian if your dog is experiencing any vomiting or diarrhea, has liver or kidney disease, has a bleeding disorder, may be pregnant or is nursing, or if you intend to breed your dog.

Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your dog is taking, and also if your dog has had any reactions to previous medications.

What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.

What is the most important information I should know?
Your pet will need certain laboratory tests and exams while taking Previcox. Give Previcox exactly as your veterinarian directs. Be aware of the common side effects of this medication. Notify your veterinarian immediately if any side effects are observed.

Do NOT give Previcox to cats.

Who should not take it?
Not for use in cats.

Not for use in animals who are hypersensitive (allergic) to carprofen (Rimadyl, Novox), aspirin, etodolac (EtoGesic), firocoxib (Previcox), meloxicam (Metacam), tepoxalin (Zubrin), or other NSAIDs.

Not for use in dogs less than 7 pounds of body weight, as accurate dosing cannot be made.

Use of Previcox at higher than recommended doses in puppies less than 7 months of age may result in serious side effects.

What side effects may be seen when taking Previcox? [Back]
The most common side effect of NSAIDs is stomach upset, but stomach ulcers may develop, in which case you may see loss of appetite; vomiting; diarrhea; dark, tarry, or bloody stools; or constipation. Side effects involving the kidney include increased thirst and urination, or changes in the urine color or smell. Liver-related side effects include jaundice (yellowing of the gums, skin, or eyes). Other side effects may include pale gums, lethargy, shedding, incoordination, seizures, or behavioral changes. If any of these side effects are observed, stop treatment and contact your veterinarian.

If your pet experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

How is it stored?
Store at room temperature in a tight, light resistant, childproof container; do not expose to high heat. The chewable form of the drug is appealing to pets and children. Store in a secure area to prevent an accidental overdose.

What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
With an overdose, you may see vomiting; diarrhea; dark, tarry, or bloody stools; constipation; increased thirst and urination; changes in the urine color or smell; yellowing of the gums, skin, or eyes; incoordination; seizures; or behavioral changes. If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose or if any of these side effects are observed, stop treatment and contact your veterinarian immediately.

What should I avoid when giving my pet Previcox?
Consult your veterinarian before using Previcox with any other medications, including vitamins and supplements, other NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin, carprofen (Rimadyl, Novox), etodolac (EtoGesic), deracoxib (Deramaxx), tepoxalin (Zubrin), and meloxicam (Metacam); steroids (e.g., prednisone, dexamethasone, Medrol, triamcinolone), methotrexate, furosemide (Lasix), digoxin, phenobarbital, oral anticoagulants (heparin, warfarin), enalapril, phenylpropanolamine, sulfa drugs, and some oral antidiabetic drugs, since interactions may occur.

Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the Patient Information Sheet on this medication.