Previcox (Firocoxib) Chewable Tablets for Dogs

Are PREVICOX® (firocoxib) chewable tablets an NSAID?

PREVICOX® (firocoxib) for Dogs is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to control pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. It is also indicated for the control of postoperative pain and inflammation associated with soft-tissue and orthopedic surgery in dogs.

Is PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory safe for dogs?

PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory is safe for dogs when used according to the prescribing directions provided by your veterinarian. Be sure to precisely give the dosage prescribed and don’t give your dog PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory more frequently than instructed. This product cannot be accurately dosed in dogs less than 12.5 pounds in body weight. As with all medications, side effects are possible, so talk to your veterinarian if you suspect or notice an adverse reaction of any kind. Please also refer to the Prescribing Information.

How much PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory do I give my dog?

Give your dog precisely the amount of PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory prescribed by your veterinarian. Be sure to follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully and do not exceed the dosage or administer PREVICOX® NSAID more frequently than directed. Your veterinarian may prescribe PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory for dogs for short-term use or as a long-term pain and inflammation treatment.

Can PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory be given with other medications?

PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory should not be given with other NSAIDs (for example, aspirin, carprofen, etodolac, deracoxib, meloxicam, or tepoxalin) or corticosteroids (for example, prednisone, cortisone, dexamethasone, or triamcinolone). Tell your veterinarian about all medications that you have given your dog in the past, and any medications that you are planning to give. This should include other medicines that you can get without a prescription or any dietary supplements. Your veterinarian will want to determine which, and if, of your dog’s medicines and supplements can be given together.

How do I give PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory to my dog?

PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory should be given according to your veterinarian’s instructions. Do not change the way you give PREVICOX® NSAID to your dog without first speaking with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will tell you what amount of PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory is right for your dog and for how long it should be given. Most dogs will take PREVICOX® NSAID chewable tablets from your hand, but you can also place the tablet directly into your dog’s mouth. PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory may be given with or without food.

Can PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory be used for people or other animals?

PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory is designed and approved specifically for dogs. As such, people should not take PREVICOX® NSAID nor administer it to any animal other than a dog as prescribed by your veterinarian. Keep PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory and all medications out of the reach of children. Call your physician immediately if you or a member of your family accidentally ingests PREVICOX® NSAID.

What should I do in case my dog consumes more than the prescribed amount of PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory?

Consult your veterinarian immediately if your dog consumes more than the prescribed amount of PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory.

Are there possible side effects that may occur in my dog during treatment with PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory?

PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory, like any NSAID, may cause some side effects. The most common side effects associated with PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory therapy involve the digestive tract (vomiting and decreased food consumption). Liver and kidney problems have also been reported with the use of NSAIDs.

Look for the following side effects that may indicate your dog is having a problem with PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory or may have another medical problem in addition to osteoarthritis. • Vomiting. • Change in bowel movements (such as diarrhea or black, tarry, or bloody stools). • Change in behavior (such as decreased or increased activity level, lack of coordination, seizure, or aggression). • Yellowing of gums, skin, or whites of the eyes (jaundice). • Change in drinking habits (frequency or amount consumed). • Change in urination habits (frequency, color, or smell). • Change in skin (redness, scabs, or scratching). • Unexpected weight loss.

It is important to stop treatment and contact your veterinarian immediately if you think your dog has a medical problem or side effect while taking PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory tablets. Please also refer to the Prescribing Information.

What should I tell or ask my veterinarian before giving my dog PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory?

Talk with your veterinarian about: • The signs of canine osteoarthritis you have observed in your dog, such as limping or stiffness. You can view our checklist of common signs and take it with you to help you talk with your veterinarian here. • The importance of diet, weight management and an exercise/activity plan in the management of osteoarthritis in dogs. • What tests might be done before PREVICOX® NSAID is prescribed. • How often your dog may have to be examined by your veterinarian. • The risks and benefits of using PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory.

Tell your veterinarian if your dog has ever had one or more of the following medical problems: • Any side effects from taking PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory or other NSAIDs • Any digestive upset (vomiting and/or diarrhea) • Any kidney disease • Any liver disease

Tell your veterinarian about: • Any other medical problems or allergies that your dog has now or has had in the past. • All medicines that you are giving or planning to give your dog, including those you can get without a prescription and any dietary supplements.

Which dogs should not take PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory?

Your dog should not be given PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory if he/she: • Has had an allergic reaction to firocoxib, the active ingredient in PREVICOX® NSAID. • Has had an allergic reaction (such as hives, facial swelling, or red or itchy skin) to aspirin or other NSAIDs. • Is presently taking aspirin, another NSAID, or corticosteroids. • Is under 12.5 pounds in body weight.

What is the best number to call regarding any specific PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory questions?

For any specific product questions, please call the Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health toll-free customer service line number at 1-888-637-4251.

Does PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory make dogs sleepy?

PREVICOX® anti-inflammatory does not make dogs sleepy, but other side effects can occur. The most common side effects associated with PREVICOX® NSAID include vomiting and decreased food consumption. Persistent vomiting, weight loss or a change in stools, skin, behavior or drinking habits may indicate a serious reaction. Contact your veterinarian if you notice any concerning side effects—including lethargy—and seek immediate medical help for a serious reaction.