Zubrin® (tepoxalin) Tablets (Brand)

What is Zubrin?
Zubrin is a medication used to treat the pain and inflammation of osteoarthritis.

Who is it for?
Zubrin is for dogs. The safety of the drug has not been determined in dogs less than 6 months of age. Dogs less than 6.5 lbs cannot be accurately dosed.

What are the benefits?

How does Zubrin work?
Zubrin 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 Zubrin, with your veterinarian.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
No.

How is it given?
Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian. Zubrin is given by mouth. It is specially formulated to dissolve in the mouth. Place the tablet into the dog's mouth. Keep the mouth closed for at least 4 seconds to allow the ingredients to disperse. It is best to give Zubrin either with food or within 1 to 2 hours of feeding. Provide access to fresh, clean water at all times to help avoid dehydration.

For long-term treatment, use the lowest dose needed to provide relief. For arthritic conditions, it may need to be given periodically for the animal's lifetime.

What results can I expect?
Zubrin does not cure arthritis 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 Zubrin. Improvement of inflammation can generally be seen after several days. Since Zubrin is not a cure for arthritis, the signs may come back if Zubrin is discontinued.

What form(s) does it come in?
Zubrin comes in tablet form, specially formulated to dissolve in the mouth.

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

Brand Name
Zubrin

Pronunciation
ZOO-brin

Common Drug Name
Tepoxalin

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Zubrin?
Talk to your veterinarian about what tests and exams may be necessary while your pet is taking Zubrin. 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.

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 Zubrin. Give Zubrin 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.

Who should not take it?
Not for use in animals who are hypersensitive (allergic) to tepoxalin or similar drugs such as carprofen (Novox or Rimadyl), aspirin, etodolac (EtoGesic), deracoxib (Deramaxx), meloxicam (Metacam), firocoxib (Previcox), or other NSAIDs.

The safety of Zubrin in breeding, pregnant, or lactating animals (female animals nursing their young) has not been determined. The safety of the drug has not been determined in dogs less than 6 months of age.

What side effects may be seen when taking Zubrin?
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.

Side effects involving the liver 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, protected from moisture (not in the bathroom). Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
Should overdose occur, you may see loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, dark or tarry stools, bloody stools, increased thirst, increased urination, pale gums, jaundice (yellowing of gums, skin, or eyes), lethargy, increased respiration (fast or heavy breathing), or incoordination. If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, or if you observe any of these signs in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately. An overdose or toxicity could be fatal.

What should I avoid when giving my pet Zubrin?
Consult your veterinarian before using tepoxalin with other medications, including vitamins and supplements, NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin, carprofen (Novox or Rimadyl), etodolac (EtoGesic), deracoxib (Deramaxx), meloxicam (Metacam), firocoxib (Previcox); steroids (e.g., prednisone, prednisolone, dexamethasone, Medrol, triamcinolone), methotrexate, phenylpropanolamine, enalapril, or phenobarbital, since interactions may occur. Compatibility with other medications has not been determined.

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.