PREVICOX (FIROCOXIB)

Previcox-Pain Relief for Your Dog

You may start noticing that your canine companion is a little slower to get up and go outside for walks or is not as quick to chase the Frisbee or ball. It’s possible that he/she is experiencing osteoarthritis, a major cause of chronic pain in dogs over a year old. Your veterinarian can prescribe Previcox (Firocoxib), a chewable tablet that works as a non-steroidal anti inflammatory drug (NSAID) to bring down the swelling and reduce inflammation of the joints that has affected your dog’s energy level. If your dog is also packing around a few more pounds than necessary, you can ask your vet about the best weight loss plan so the joints are not carrying around extra weight.

How NSAIDs Work

Previcox is designed to act as a selective COX inhibitor, meaning that it inhibits the activity of the cyclooxygenase (COX-2) enzymes that are found at sites of inflammation but has very little to do with the COX-1 enzyme. These enzymes are responsible for converting arachidonic acid into prostaglandins in response to an injury or a threat and cause inflammation. By inhibiting prostaglandin production, joint pain and inflammation is reduced.

The COX-1 enzyme is responsible for many housekeeping duties, including managing a healthy stomach lining. As Previcox is a selective COX inhibitor, your dog’s risk of gastrointestinal problems from this NSAID will be decreased as prostaglandin production is unaffected.

Canine Osteoarthritis

Age and weight are two of the most common reasons for this chronic inflammatory joint disease in dogs. Your dog’s diet should be adjusted as he starts to slow down or there can be real concern over weight gain and the stress this can put on the joints. Previcox will not repair any damage that has already occurred, but it can slow down the progression and provide pain relief so your dog can easily go for walks and enjoy play time. Follow a diet and weight management plan and treat him with a chewable Previcox barbeque-flavored tablet once a day.

Before You Give Previcox to Your Dog

Ask your vet if Previcox is safe for your dog if she’s pregnant or nursing a litter of pups. Explain other medical conditions or allergies your dog has and list any current meds you are giving to be certain Previcox will not cause an adverse reaction or change the efficacy of other drugs.

Proper Use of Previcox

The dosage of Previcox will depend on the dog’s weight, the heavier the dog ~ the higher the dosage. If you have a weight loss plan in place, monitor any reduction and inform your vet. Keep Previcox out of children’s reach and away from all pets. For multi-pet households, if more than 1 dog is taking Previcox, be sure each one receives the proper dose or they will not benefit from any pain relief.

Possible Side Effects of Previcox

• Nausea or vomiting
• Decreased appetite
• Skin irritation