image of various medications

How does Firocoxib work and what is it used for?

Firocoxib is classed as a non-steroidal anti inflammatory (NSAID) medication. Medications in this class block an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX), this enzyme is involved in the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are the substances that trigger inflammation, pain, fever and swelling. Therefore, Firocoxib is used to control inflammation, pain, fever and swelling.

Firocoxib is commonly used in dogs and horses to control arthritis pain. It is also used after surgery and for injuries.

Firocoxib is not registered or recommended for cats.

How is it administered?

Firocoxib is most often administered in a tablet form by mouth (in both dogs and horses). It can also be compounded into a liquid form. Care must be taken with dosing if given as a liquid. 

Firocoxib can cause stomach upsets (e.g. vomiting) if given on an empty stomach. So it is often recommended to give with food. 

How quickly does it work?

Firocoxib takes effect in 1 to 2 hours. 

What are the potential side effects of Firocoxib?

The potential side effects of Firocoxib are the same as others in their drug class (NSAIDs). These include:

  • Vomiting
  • Decreased appetite
  • Anorexia 

Precautions and Contraindications

Precautions:

Firocoxib should be used with caution in animals that:

  • are dehydrated
  • have liver, kidney or heart disease
  • have low blood pressure 
  • are on diruetic medications

Avoided or used with caution in pets with gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding disorders. 

Contraindications:

Not to be used in pets that are:

  • younger than 7 months old
  • known to have an allergy to Firocoxib or other NSAIDs
  • currently prescribed corticosteroids
  • currently prescribed NSAID

The safety of Fircoxib has not been evaluated for pregnant, lactating or breeding pets.

Does Firocoxib interact with other drugs?

Firocoxib should not be given in combination with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids as these drugs can interact and lead to severe side effects like gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding. 

Storage and Handling

Store firocoxib at room temperature. Do not use after the expiration date stated on the bottle. Store compounded liquid according to bottle instructions. 

Keep out of reach and sight of children.

Dosage

Dogs: Firocoxib is dosed at 5mg per kg of body weight, once per day. 

Horses: 0.1mg per kg of body weight, once per day. 

Follow your treating Veterinarian's instructions regarding dosing for your pet.

What should I do if my pet misses a dose?

If you miss your pet's dose of Firocoxib and it is MORE than 12 hours before the next scheduled dose, give the missed dose immediately. 

If you miss your pet's dose of Firocoxib and it is LESS than 12 hours before the next scheduled dose, either:

  • Skip the missed dose and give regular dose at normal time OR
  • Give the missed dose and then wait the normal dosing interval before giving it again (i.e. continue to give dose at new time)

 Never give your pet more than prescribed dose (i.e. NEVER double dose or give at more regular intervals). 

Stopping Firocoxib

It is recommended that you follow your treating veterinarians instructions in terms of duration of treatment. There is no need to taper off when the course of Firocoxib is finished. Any cessation or change to your pet's medication should only be done under the close supervision and recommendation of your treating Veterinarian. 

What should I do if my pet has consumed too much Firocoxib?

If you suspect your pet has overdosed on Firocoxib, contact your prescribing veterinarian immediately. If you are unable to get in contact with them (or it is after clinic hours), call your local emergency veterinary clinic for advice.

Importance of Veterinary Monitoring

As with other NSAIDs, it is important that your pet is monitored closely if on meloxicam. Blood tests before commencing a course and regular blood testing (at least anually) if used long term is recommended. These blood tests will help to monitor liver and kidney function and can also help to detect signs of gastointestinal ulceration. 

Alternative and Related Medications

Alternative NSAIDs to Firocoxib include:

  • Carprofen (Rimadyl)
  • Meloxicam (Metacam)
  • Deracoxib (Deramaxx)
  • Phenylbutazone (Bute) - horses
  • Flunixin meglumine (Benamine) - horses

Other pain medications commonly used in dogs and horses include:

  • Gapapentin
  • Opioids
  • Tramadol
  • Cortisone
  • Ketamine

References:

https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/firocoxib

https://bi-animalhealth.com/pets/canine/products/therapeutics/previcox

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/pharmacology-toxicology-and-pharmaceutical-science/firocoxib