Last Updated: 27/05/2025
Firocoxib (Previcox) Medication Guide
Learn all about previcox for dogs and horses: uses precautions side effects and much more.
Author: Dr Tiffany Barnsdale BVSc (Hons)
Reading Time: 14 minutes - short read
Last Updated: 27/05/2025
Learn all about previcox for dogs and horses: uses precautions side effects and much more.
Author: Dr Tiffany Barnsdale BVSc (Hons)
Reading Time: 14 minutes - short read
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How it works and what it's 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.
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.
Firocoxib takes effect in 1 to 2 hours.
The potential side effects of Firocoxib are the same as others in their drug class (NSAIDs). These include:
Firocoxib should be used with caution in animals that:
Avoided or used with caution in pets with gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding disorders.
Not to be used in pets that are:
The safety of Fircoxib has not been evaluated for pregnant, lactating or breeding pets.
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.
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.
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.
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:
Never give your pet more than prescribed dose (i.e. NEVER double dose or give at more regular intervals).
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.
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.
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 NSAIDs to Firocoxib include:
Other pain medications commonly used in dogs and horses include:
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
