Deramaxx (deracoxib) Chewable Tablets for Dogs, 75-mg, 30 tablets

Deramaxx tablets are a prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) of the coxib class. They are indicated for the control of postoperative pain and inflammation associated with orthopedic (bone) and dental surgery in dogs and for the control of pain and inflammation (soreness) associated with osteoarthritis in dogs. The tablets are flavored to make administration more convenient.

Deramaxx tablets allow your dog to recover more comfortably by controlling pain and inflammation that follow orthopedical and dental surgery.

• The postoperative orthopedic pain dose is a higher dose; administration at this dose should not exceed 7 days total, including the days the pet is administered Deramaxx while in the hospital.
• Control of pain and inflammation may vary from dog to dog.
• If Deramaxx tablets are not given according to your veterinarian’s directions, your dog’s pain may return.
• Consult your veterinarian if your dog appears to be uncomfortable.

Osteoarthritis is a painful condition caused by damage to cartilage and other parts of the joint that may result in the following changes or signs in your dog:

• Limping or lameness
• Decreased activity or exercise (reluctance to stand, climb stairs, jump or run, or difficulty in performing these activities)
• Stiffness or decreased movement of joints

While Deramaxx is not a cure for osteoarthritis, it can control the pain and inflammation of osteoarthritis and improve your dog’s mobility. The response may vary from dog to dog but can be quite dramatic. Deramaxx tablets may need to be given on a periodic basis for the animal’s lifetime. Use the lowest dose to provide adequate relief. Always consult with your veterinarian before altering the dose.

Your dog should not be given Deramaxx tablets if s/he:

• Has had an allergic reaction to deracoxib, the active ingredient in Deramaxx tablets.
• Has had an allergic reaction (such as hives, facial swelling, or red or itchy skin) to aspirin or other NSAIDs
• Is presently taking aspirin, other NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), or corticosteroids (unless directed by your veterinarian)
• Has bloody stool or vomit
• Has a pre-existing kidney or liver condition.
• Has any condition predisposing to dehydration.
• Is anorexic (loss of appetite)

Deramaxx tablets should only be given to dogs. Do not use in cats. People should not take Deramaxx tablets. Keep Deramaxx tablets and all medication out of reach of children. Call your physician immediately if you accidentally take Deramaxx tablets.

Tell your veterinarian about:

• Any side effects your dog has experienced from Deramaxx tablets or other NSAIDs
• Any digestive upset (vomiting or diarrhea) your dog has had.
• Any kidney disease your dog has had
• Any other medical problems or allergies that your dog has now or has had in the past.
• All medications that you are giving your dog or plan to give your dog, including those you can get without the prescription and any dietary supplements
• If you plan to breed your dog, or if your dog is pregnant or nursing

Talk to your veterinarian about:

• The orthopedic or dental surgery your dog will undergo
• What tests might be done before surgery is performed or Deramaxx tablets are prescribed
• The signs of pain or inflammation that may occur after surgery
• Normal events that can be expected after your dog undergoes surgery
• The proper amount of exercise after surgery to aid recovery
• The signs of osteoarthritis you have observed (for example, limping or stiffness)
• The importance of weight control, physical therapy, and exercise in the management of osteoarthritis
• How often your dog may need to be examined by your veterinarian.
• The risks and benefits of using Deramaxx tablets

Deramaxx tablets should be given according to your veterinarian’s instructions. Your veterinarian will tell you what amount of Deramaxx tablets is right for your dog and for how long they should be given. Do not change the way you give Deramaxx tablets to your dog without first speaking with your veterinarian. Deramaxx tablets should be given by mouth and may be given with or without food, although with food is preferable.

Deramaxx tablets may cause some side effects in individual dogs. Serious side effects associated with this drug can occur with or without warning and, in some cases, result in death. The most common side effects associated with DERAMAXX therapy involve the digestive tract (vomiting, decreased appetite, and diarrhea). Liver and kidney problems have also been reported. It is important to stop the medication and contact your veterinarian immediately if you think your dog may have a medical problem or side effect while on Deramaxx tablets. If you have additional questions about possible side effects, talk with your veterinarian or call Novartis Animal Health 1-800-637-0281.

Look for the following side effects that may indicate that your dog is having a problem with Deramaxx tablets or may have another medical problem:

• Vomiting
• Decrease in appetite
• Change in behavior, such as depression, restlessness, aggression or apprehension
• Change in bowel movements such as diarrhea or change in stool color (black, tarry or bloody stool)
• Change in drinking or urination
• Yellowing of gums, skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice)

Deramaxx tablets should not be given with other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids (for example, aspirin, carprofen, etodolac, prednisone). Tell your veterinarian about all medications that you have given your dog in the past, and any medications that you are planning to give with Deramaxx tablets. This should include any medications that you can get without a prescription and any dietary supplements. Your veterinarian may want to evaluate the potential for any drug interactions and to assure drug compatibility.

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog eats more than the prescribed amount of Deramaxx tablets.

This sheet provides a summary of information about Deramaxx tablets. If you have any questions or concerns about Deramaxx tablets, postoperative orthopedic and dental pain and inflammation, or osteoarthritis, talk to your veterinarian. As with all prescribed medications, Deramaxx tablets should only be given to the dog for which they are prescribed. They should be given to your dog only for the condition for which they were prescribed, at the prescribed dose, as directed by your veterinarian. It is important to periodically discuss your dog’s response to Deramaxx tablets at regular checkups. Your veterinarian will best determine if your dog is responding as expected and if your dog should continue receiving Deramaxx tablets.