Previcox® (Firocoxib)

Previcox® contains firocoxib as the main active ingredient. This is a prescription medication used most commonly in dogs to manage pain and inflammation related to osteoarthritis. It can also be used for postoperative pain and inflammation following surgery such as dental, orthopaedic and soft tissue procedures. Occasionally, veterinarians may prescribe this medication for off-label use to control inflammation in other various conditions.

Previcox® belongs to a class of drugs known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and is specifically a selective COX-2 inhibitor. This means it targets the COX-2 pathway in the body, which is responsible for producing chemicals that cause inflammation and fever. By doing so, Previcox® offers pain relief and reduces fever. Its selective action typically spares the COX-1 pathway, which is important for digestion, kidney health, and blood clotting. However, like any medication there is a risk of side effects, so it’s important to follow your veterinarian’s directions exactly.

Always follow your veterinarian's instructions or the directions on the drug label. Previcox® is typically administered orally once a day at the lowest effective dose (5 mg per kg bodyweight) for the shortest period necessary.

Overdose:

In case of suspected overdose, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary service immediately. For poison-related emergencies in New Zealand, contact the National Poisons Centre at www.poisons.co.nz/animal-helpline/ or phone 0800 869 738.

Previcox should not be used in breeding, pregnant or lactating dogs, or puppies younger than 10 weeks old. It is important to consult your veterinarian on what is the best treatment for your pet. Consulting with your veterinarian is important if your pet is on other medications, as Previcox® is generally not advised to be used in conjunction with corticosteroids or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

While Previcox® is generally well-tolerated, potential side effects can include:

• Vomiting
• Loss of Appetite
• Diarrhoea
• Bloody vomiting or diarrhoea
• Lethargy
• Changes in thirst or urination
• Jaundice (yellowing of the gums and whites of the eyes)
• Elevated heart rate
• General itchiness

If you observe any signs of side effects, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Store Previcox® at room temperature, avoiding any extreme temperatures. The medication should be kept in a tightly closed container to protect it from moisture and light, and out of reach of children and pets. The chewable tablets are palatable so should be securely stored away from pets to avoid them accidentally eating them and overdosing.

Routine testing and monitoring might be recommended by your veterinarian. Your vet might recommend blood tests prior to, or during treatment.

How long can my dog stay on Previcox®?

• It's important to discuss this with your veterinarian, however generally Previcox® can be safely used long-term in many dogs.

How quickly does Previcox® work?

• It’s important to consult your veterinarian on what to expect and how to monitor your pet’s response to the medication. Generally, Previcox® can take effect approximately 3-7 hours after administration. It may take 3 days to achieve full effectiveness in some dogs.

Are there any safety precautions to take when handling Previcox®?

• When handling Previcox®, it is usually recommended to wash hands before and after use, to avoid skin and eye contact. Additionally, storing this medication securely out of reach from children and pets, and safely disposing of unused medication is highly recommended.