Novox® Caplets (Bio-equivalent of Rimadyl®)

What is Novox®?
Novox relieves pain and inflammation caused by arthritis and other joint problems to help your dog maintain his regular activity level and quality of life. It is also given to help reduce pain associated with surgeries.

Who is it for?
Novox is labeled for dogs, but it may also be prescribed for some other species such as small animals and birds. The safe use of Novox in dogs less than 6 weeks of age has not been evaluated.

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. Novox, a branded generic form of carprofen, relieves arthritis pain and inflammation to help your dog maintain his regular activity level and quality of life. Novox is shown to be clinically effective and can also be used to control pain from soft-tissue and orthopedic surgeries in dogs. Available in scored caplets, which are easy to break apart to give the exact dose your pet needs.

How does Novox work?
Novox is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug or NSAID. These types of drugs inhibit the cell's production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals made by the cells to perform specific functions, such as triggering 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 Novox, with your veterinarian.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
Novox is the generic to Rimadyl.

How is it given?
Novox 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?
Novox does not cure a disease but can effectively reduce 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 Novox. Improvement of inflammation can generally be seen after several days. Novox is not a cure for arthritis, and the signs may come back if Novox is discontinued.

What form(s) does it come in?
Novox 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.

Pronunciation
NO-vox

Brand Name
Rimadyl® is the brand name for carprofen. Novox is a branded generic equivalent.

Common Drug Name
Carprofen

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Novox?
Talk to your veterinarian about what tests and exams may be necessary while your pet is taking Novox. 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 Novox. Give Novox exactly as your veterinarian directs. Be aware of the common side effects of this medication, listed below. Notify your veterinarian immediately if any side effects are observed.

Do NOT give Novox to cats.

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

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

The safe use of Novox in dogs less than 6 weeks of age has not been evaluated.

What side effects may be seen when taking Novox? [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. 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 Novox?
Consult your veterinarian before using Novox with any other medications, including vitamins and supplements, other NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin, Rimadyl, etodolac (EtoGesic), deracoxib (Deramaxx), firocoxib (Previcox), 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.