Previcox® Tablets for Dogs

What Previcox® Is and How It Works

Previcox® is a veterinary nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine (firocoxib) for dogs. It relieves pain and inflammation from osteoarthritis and helps manage postoperative discomfort after orthopedic or dental procedures. With US delivery from Canada and access to Canadian pricing, many pet owners paying cash without insurance find it a practical option through licensed channels.

Every CanadianInsulin order is prescription-checked with your clinic and dispensed by a licensed Canadian pharmacy.

Firocoxib is a COX-2 selective NSAID. By preferentially blocking the COX-2 enzyme, it reduces prostaglandins that trigger joint pain and swelling, while aiming to spare COX-1 activity that supports the stomach, kidneys, and platelets. Selectivity is dose dependent and individual responses vary. As with all NSAIDs, benefits must be balanced with careful monitoring for gastrointestinal, kidney, or liver effects.

The tablets are flavored to encourage acceptance. Once-daily dosing can simplify routines for long-term osteoarthritis management. When used as directed by a veterinarian, Previcox supports more comfortable movement and daily activity without sedating effects.

For background on NSAIDs in dogs and how they compare, see our article Deramaxx For Dogs and this overview on joint disease Understanding Arthritis.

Who Previcox® Is For

Previcox is indicated for the relief of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs, and for the control of postoperative pain related to soft tissue, orthopedic, and dental surgery as prescribed. It is not for use in cats. Safety has not been established in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs.

Use caution in dogs with a history of gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding, dehydration, kidney or liver disease, clotting disorders, or heart disease. Older dogs and those on diuretics or ACE inhibitors may require closer monitoring. Do not use in dogs that are hypersensitive to firocoxib or other NSAIDs.

Dosage and Usage

Previcox dosing is based on body weight. A commonly used regimen is 5 mg/kg once daily for osteoarthritis. Postoperative dosing is typically short term as directed by the veterinarian. Give with or without food; offering with a small meal may reduce stomach upset in sensitive dogs.

General administration guidance:

• Give at the same time each day to keep a steady routine.
• Use only the prescribed tablet strength that matches your dog’s weight range.
• If tablet splitting is prescribed, follow your veterinarian’s directions; use scored tablets only.
• Do not combine with another NSAID or a corticosteroid.
• Provide fresh water at all times and monitor appetite, stool quality, and behavior.

Veterinarians often aim for the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration that maintains comfort. Long-term therapy usually includes periodic checkups and laboratory monitoring to assess kidney and liver health and to reassess ongoing need.

Strengths and Forms

Previcox chewable tablets are commonly available in two scored strengths for dogs: 57 mg and 227 mg. The tablets are flavored and scored to support accurate dosing when splitting is prescribed. Availability may vary by pharmacy and stock. Your veterinarian will select a tablet size that fits your dog’s weight and treatment plan.

Missed Dose and Timing

If a dose is missed, give it when remembered the same day. If it is close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose. If your dog vomits shortly after a dose, ask your veterinarian whether to repeat it based on timing and your dog’s history.

Storage and Travel Basics

Store tablets at room temperature in the original packaging, away from moisture and direct heat. Keep the container out of reach of children and other pets. Do not use tablets that are damaged or past the labeled expiration. Dispose of unused medicine according to local regulations or your clinic’s instructions.

For travel, carry the medicine in the original labeled container and a copy of the prescription. Avoid storing medications in hot vehicles or damp environments. When flying, keep medications in your carry-on. If traveling internationally with your pet, check import rules for veterinary medications in advance and keep documentation handy.

Benefits

• Relieves osteoarthritis pain to support mobility, exercise, and daily comfort.
• Controls surgical pain when prescribed for short-term use.
• Once-daily dosing simplifies long-term management for many dogs.
• COX-2 selectivity aims to reduce gastrointestinal and platelet effects compared with some nonselective NSAIDs.
• Palatable, scored tablets may ease administration and dose adjustments under veterinary guidance.
• Non-sedating pain relief helps maintain normal alertness and behavior.

Side Effects and Safety

Most dogs tolerate firocoxib well, but adverse effects can occur. Common side effects may include:

• Vomiting or soft stools
• Decreased appetite
• Lethargy
• Increased thirst or urination
• Mild behavioral changes

Serious problems are less common but require immediate veterinary attention. Warning signs include persistent vomiting or diarrhea, black or bloody stools, blood in vomit, abdominal pain, yellowing of gums or eyes, severe lethargy or collapse, seizures, or sudden changes in drinking and urination. Dogs with preexisting kidney, liver, gastrointestinal, or bleeding disorders are at higher risk and need close monitoring. Stop the medication and contact the veterinarian if serious symptoms appear.

Drug Interactions and Cautions

Do not give Previcox with another NSAID or a corticosteroid, as combination therapy increases gastrointestinal and kidney risks. Use caution with ACE inhibitors, diuretics, or nephrotoxic drugs; your veterinarian may recommend extra monitoring. Anticoagulants and other highly protein-bound drugs may interact. Inform the prescribing clinician about all medicines, supplements, and special diets your dog receives.

Ensure dogs are well hydrated before surgery and during recovery when NSAIDs are used. Because safety is not established in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs, prescribers typically choose alternatives in those situations. Never give human pain relievers to dogs unless specifically instructed by a veterinarian.

What to Expect Over Time

For osteoarthritis, many dogs show improved comfort, activity, and willingness to climb stairs or exercise after starting therapy. Response depends on disease severity, weight management, home environment, and adjunctive measures such as controlled activity, physical therapy, and joint supplements. Some dogs do best with an integrated plan that also addresses diet and mobility aids.

With long-term use, periodic examinations and laboratory tests help assess kidney and liver function and overall progress. For postoperative pain, treatment is usually short term. As surgical healing progresses, the need for NSAIDs diminishes, and the veterinarian will advise when to discontinue.

Compare With Alternatives

Several veterinary NSAIDs are available, and prescribers choose based on a dog’s medical history and response. Options include Deramaxx (deracoxib) and Rimadyl (carprofen), both widely used for osteoarthritis and postoperative pain. Some veterinarians prefer liquid formulations such as Metacam Oral Suspension when precise dose adjustments are needed, or shorter-course options like Onsior Dog for certain indications. If one NSAID is not tolerated or effective, another may be tried under veterinary supervision.

To explore the broader category, browse Pet Medications for related therapies and supportive care products.

Pricing and Access

Canadian pricing through a licensed cross-border service can reduce out-of-pocket costs for brand-name veterinary NSAIDs. If you are comparing options to buy Previcox for your dog, we can coordinate US delivery from Canada through partner pharmacies after prescription verification. See current offers and tips at promotions.

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Availability and Substitutions

Availability can vary. If a specific tablet strength is temporarily unavailable, a prescriber may recommend a suitable alternative NSAID or a different formulation based on your dog’s medical history. The veterinarian’s guidance is essential when considering a switch, especially if your dog has experienced side effects with any NSAID.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

Dogs with chronic osteoarthritis, those recovering from orthopedic or dental procedures, and adults with activity-related pain may be candidates when an NSAID is appropriate. Dogs with active gastrointestinal disease, significant kidney or liver impairment, clotting disorders, or known NSAID intolerance may not be suitable.

• Ask about a multi-month prescription if stable on therapy to reduce refill frequency.
• Schedule periodic checkups and recommended labs to optimize dosing and safety.
• Discuss weight management and joint-friendly activity to enhance comfort.
• Use reminder tools to keep dosing consistent and avoid missed doses.
• If tablet splitting is advised, confirm the correct scored tablet and technique with your clinic.

Questions to Ask Your Clinician

• Is Previcox the right NSAID for my dog’s medical history?
• What signs should prompt a call or visit after starting therapy?
• How often should blood work be checked during long-term use?
• Could diet, weight management, or joint supplements improve results?
• What is the plan if my dog does not tolerate this NSAID?
• How should I transition off Previcox after surgery or if changing medicines?

Authoritative Sources

• FDA on NSAIDs for Dogs
• Merck Veterinary Manual: Firocoxib
• Deramaxx For Dogs

Ready to get started? We arrange prescription verification with your clinic and partner pharmacies provide prompt, express, cold-chain shipping for US deliveries from Canada.

This information is educational and not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Use medications only under the direction of a licensed veterinarian.