Previcox for Dogs: Benefits, Dosage, Safety and More

Yes, Previcox for dogs is safe, as long as the veterinarian recommends its use. Previcox is a vet-approved medication and is safe for long-term use, especially for dogs with arthritis. 

Previcox (active ingredient Firocoxib) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that works by blocking the cyclooxygenase-2 enzyme. COX enzymes are responsible for stimulating the production of prostaglandins (hormone-like chemicals). COX-1 is linked with prostaglandins that support the normal homeostatic function (renal perfusion, platelet aggregation, mucosal layer secretion), while COX-2 supports pain, inflammation, swelling, and fever. 

Previcox for dogs is safe because it belongs to the class of selectively inhibitory NSAIDs, it only blocks COX-2 without affecting the COX-1 enzymes. 

Previcox for dogs is used to manage medical problems manifesting pain and inflammation. The most common use of Previcox is in dogs with joint issues. However, there are other extra-label uses. Here is a short overview of the conditions in which Previcox for dogs is beneficial. 

Previcox for Dogs with Osteoarthritis. Inflammation of the joints is something all dogs will develop at a certain age. Manifesting with severe joint pain, stiffness, and decrease in mobility, arthritis in dogs, cannot be treated, but only managed. Previcox is an excellent pain managing drug. 

Previcox for Dogs with Postoperative Pain. Previcox provides reliable pain relief and is often prescribed before and after surgical procedures. Previcox is suitable for managing pain associated with both orthopedic surgery and soft tissue surgery. 

Previcox for Dogs with Cancer Pain. Off-label, Previcox is also used to provide pain relief for dogs with certain types of cancer, such as transitional cell carcinoma. Transitional cell carcinoma in dogs usually develops in the bladder and urethra and is more common among small breeds. 

The most common side effects of Previcox for dogs include vomiting, changes in bowel movements like diarrhea, tarry stools, bloody stools, and behavior changes like increased or decreased activity levels, aggression, incoordination, and dog seizures. 

Other possible side effects include lethargy, decreased appetite, unexpected weight loss, skin issues like scabs, redness, scratching, changes in urination habits like increased urination frequency, urine color, urine smell, and increased water intake. 

Previcox sensitivity varies among dogs. In more severe cases, serious adverse reactions are possible and include jaundice, increased liver enzyme levels, and yellowing of gums, skin, and whites of the eyes. 

Like all meds, in overly sensitive dogs, Previcox may cause an allergic reaction manifested with hives, facial swelling, and difficulty breathing. Previcox allergy is not a common issue in dogs. However, warnings should be made. 

Because of the high risk of serious side effects, Previcox therapy must not be used in:

On the other hand, Previcox may be used with precautions and close monitoring in:

The effects and safe use of the Previcox chewable tablets are not thoroughly determined in breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs. To avoid adverse events, it is best to refrain from using Previcox in these situations. 

The recommended dosage of Previcox for dogs is 2.27 mg/lb (5.0 mg/kg) once per day. The vet will establish the right dosage based on the dog’s body weight and underlying reason. In general, you should use the lowest effective dose for the shortest timeframe. 

In case you forgot to give your dog Previcox, give the tablet as soon as you remember. If it is close to the next dosing, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Never give extra or two doses at once as overdoses are possible. 

Previcox overdose is an emergency that manifests with ulcerations in the digestive tract and gastrointestinal perforations. Due to nephrotoxicity, potential renal complications (in the form of acute kidney failure) are plausible. 

Generally speaking, the telltale signs of Previcox overdose include:

If you notice some of these signs and symptoms or suspect a possible Previcox overdose, call your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline immediately. 

Previcox is a fast-acting medication and starts working within hours of administration. Usually, it takes between one and two hours. A visible improvement will follow the first dosing.

The elimination half-life of Previcox in dogs is 7.8 hours, but the medication stays in the dog’s system for a couple of days. This timeframe might be prolonged in dogs with liver and kidney problems. 

The Previcox tablets are easy to use and scored in the middle for easy dosing. However, they are not suitable for dogs with less than 12.5 lbs (5.7 kg) of body weight. In such cases, talk to your veterinarian about oral pastes and compounded liquids. 

Give your dog’s first dose of Previcox on an empty stomach and if there are signs of upset like vomiting, continue dosing your dog after meals. Previcox’s absorption rate and efficacy are not affected by food consumption. 

Firocoxib is given by mouth in the form of a chewable tablet or oral paste, but it may also be compounded into a liquid form. It may be given with or without food; however, if vomiting occurs when dosed on an empty stomach, give future doses with food or a treat. Measure liquid forms of the medication carefully.

As with all medications, drug interactions are possible. Boosted or inhibited effects are likely during concomitant use of Previcox for dogs and several other drugs. Here is a list of those drugs: 

However, to stay on the safe side, you should mention to the veterinarian if the dog is taking other drugs, including supplements, vitamins, and herbal remedies. You should also discuss monitoring. 

Because of the pronounced gastrointestinal, renal, and hepatic toxicity, dogs taking Previcox need regular monitoring of several baseline parameters, including CBC, electrolytes, kidney function, urinalysis, liver enzymes. They also need frequent physical examinations at the vet’s office, and at home, you must be on the lookout for serious side effects.

Finally, a word or two on Previcox storage. The tablets need to be kept in their original package and at room temperature (between 59°F and 86°F) and away from heat, light, and moisture. As with all meds, store Previcox out of reach of children and pets. In case of accidental ingestion, call your physician or veterinarian respectively.  

Previcox for dogs is one of the most popular anti-pain and anti-inflammation medications. However, if it is not the right choice for your dog, talk with the veterinarian about possible alternatives. Here are some popular alternatives for Previcox for dogs. 

Other NSAIDs for Dogs. There are several dog-friendly members of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs family, including Rimadyl (Carprofen), Metacam (Meloxicam), Etogesic (Etodolac), and Deramaxx (Deracoxib). All NSAIDs work similarly and offer the same levels of pain and inflammation management. However, different dogs tolerate them differently. Also, stay away from human formulations like Aspirin and Ibuprofen.  

Galliprant for Dogs. Galliprant is a novel type of NSAID from the piprant class. The inhibitory effects of Galliprant are very specific and only target the bad effects of the prostaglandin chemicals. Galliprant comes in the form of pork liver-flavored chewables and was voted as the best new veterinary product in 2019. 

Tramadol for Dogs. Tramadol is a synthetic opioid used for dogs with hard-to-manage pain (usually prescribed when NSAIDs cannot achieve sufficient pain relief). Tramadol can be used in conjunction with other pain medications and needs to be administered every 8 to 12 hours (recommended dose of 0.45 to 1.8 mg per pound of body weight). 

Gabapentin for Dogs. Gabapentin is a structural analog of GABA (inhibitory neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid). Gabapentin does not affect pain directly. Instead, it quiets the nervous system and boosts the pain-relieving effects of other medications (NSAIDs and Tramadol). The recommended dosage is 5 mg per pound of body weight every 12 hours. 

Instead of using traditional medications, you can also try some holistic and natural remedies like CBD oil and joint supplements. Natural remedies are less potent than mainstream drugs, but they are safer and with fewer and lesser side effects. 

CBD Oil for Dogs. Cannabidiol products formulated for pets can be used to provide pain relief and manage inflammation. We suggest using the Honest Paws CBD products (oils and treats). They are made of organically grown, full-spectrum oil and enriched with health-boosting and condition-specific ingredients. Plus, they are delicious and easy to use. Treats are available in the form of CBD soft chews, CBD bites, and CBD-infused peanut butter. 

Joint Supplements for Dogs. Joint supplements for dogs are available in various strengths and forms. They can be used alone or in conjunction with pain meds. Our top choice is the Honest Paws Mobility Powder made with Green Lipped Mussels, fish oil, glucosamine HCL, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, fish oil, vitamin C, manganese gluconate, MSM, and Boswellia serrata. The powder can be sprinkled on top of the dog’s food. 

To ensure safe use of any medication or supplement, make sure you talk with a veterinarian before starting your dog on a new treatment. Keep in mind that the information provided in this article is purely educational.