Previcox


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PREVICOX FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about
PREVICOX® (firocoxib)

What is PREVICOX?
PREVICOX is a veterinary prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to control pain and inflammation due to osteoarthritis in dogs. Osteoarthritis is a painful condition caused by "wear and tear" of cartilage and other parts of the joints 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.

What kind of results can I expect when my dog is on PREVICOX for Osteoarthritis?
While PREVICOX is not a cure for osteoarthritis, it can control the pain and inflammation and improve your dog's mobility.

  • Response varies from dog to dog, but improvement can be quite dramatic.
  • In most dogs, improvement can be seen within days.
  • If PREVICOX is discontinued or not given as directed, your dog's pain and inflammation may return.

Which dogs should not take PREVICOX?
Your dog should not be given PREVICOX if he/she:

  • Has an allergic reaction to firocoxib, the active ingredient in PREVICOX.
  • 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, or corticosteroids.
  • Is under seven pounds in body weight.

PREVICOX should only be given to dogs.
People should not take PREVICOX. Keep PREVICOX and all medications out of the reach of children. Call your physician immediately if you accidentally take PREVICOX.

What to tell/ask your veterinarian before giving PREVICOX.
Talk to your veterinarian about:

  • The signs of osteoarthritis you have observed in your dog, such as limping or stiffness.
  • The importance of weight control in the management of osteoarthritis.
  • What tests might be done before PREVICOX is prescribed.
  • How often your dog may need to be examined by your veterinarian.
  • The risks and benefits of using PREVICOX. Serious adverse reactions, including death, have been associated with PREVICOX administration at doses above the recommended dose in puppies less than seven months of age.
Tell your veterinarian if your dog has ever had the following medical problems:
  • Any side effects from taking PREVICOX or other NSAIDs, such as aspirin.
  • 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 plan to give to your dog, including those you can get without a prescription and any dietary supplements.
Tell your veterinarian if your dog:
  • Is pregnant, nursing or if you plan to breed your dog.

How to give PREVICOX to your dog.
PREVICOX should be given according to your veterinarian's instructions. Do not change the way you give PREVICOX to your dog without first speaking with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will tell you what amount of PREVICOX is right for your dog and for how long it should be given. Most dogs will take PREVICOX Chewable Tablets from your hand, or you can place the tablet in your dog's mouth. PREVICOX may be given with or without food.

What are the possible side effects that may occur in my dog during PREVICOX therapy?
PREVICOX, like other NSAIDS, may cause some side effects. Serious side effects associated with NSAID therapy in dogs can occur with or without warning, and, in rare situations, result in death. The most common side effects associated with PREVICOX therapy involve the digestive tract (vomiting and decreased food consumption). Liver or kidney problems have also been reported with NSAIDs. Look for the following side effects that may indicate your dog is having a problem with PREVICOX or may have another medical problem:

  • Decrease or increase in appetite.
  • Vomiting.
  • Change in bowel movements (such as diarrhea, or black, tarry or bloody stools).
  • Change in behavior (such as decreased or increased activity level, incoordination, 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 therapy and contact your veterinarian immediately if you think your dog has a medical problem or side effect while taking PREVICOX tablets. If you have additional questions about possible side effects, talk with your veterinarian or call 1-877-217-3543.

Can PREVICOX be given with other medications?
PREVICOX 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 you are planning to give with PREVICOX tablets. This should include other medicines that you can get without a prescription or any dietary supplements. Your veterinarian may want to check that all of your dog's medicines can be given together.

What do I do in case my dog eats more than the prescribed amount of PREVICOX?
Consult your veterinarian immediately if your dog eats more than the prescribed amount of PREVICOX.

What else should I know about PREVICOX?

  • This sheet provides a summary of information about PREVICOX tablets. If you have any questions or concerns about PREVICOX or osteoarthritis pain, talk with your veterinarian.
  • As with all prescribed medicines, PREVICOX tablets should only be given to the dog for which they were prescribed. They should be given to your dog only for the condition for which they were prescribed, at the prescribed dose.
  • It is important to periodically discuss your dog's response to PREVICOX tablets. Your veterinarian will determine if your dog is responding as expected and if your dog should continue receiving PREVICOX tablets.

Ask your veterinarian for more information about PREVICOX® (firocoxib).


*In rare cases, if your dog shows sensitivity to PREVICOX, consult your veterinarian before continuing treatment.

 





As a class, cyclooxygenase inhibitory NSAIDs may be associated with gastrointestinal, kidney or liver side effects. These are usually mild, but may be serious. Pet owners should discontinue therapy and contact their veterinarian immediately if side effects occur. Evaluation for pre-existing conditions and regular monitoring are recommended for pets on any medication, including PREVICOX. Use with other NSAIDs, corticosteroids or nephrotoxic medication should be avoided. Refer to the prescribing information for complete details or visit www.previcox.com.
 
Merial