Pet parents like us cannot stand to see our dogs in pain. That’s where Previcox comes in.
Of course, like any medication, it can have side-effects. This post is designed to give you an objective look at the good Previcox can do, and the potential side-effects that may result.
Previcox is a non-steroid anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) medication prescribed by veterinarians to treat inflammation and muscular-skeletal diseases in dogs.
Vets also prescribe this drug to dogs suffering from certain cancerous conditions, such as transitional cell carcinoma and post-surgery to manage pain.
How is Previcox Administered in Dogs?
Veterinarians administer Previcox to dogs orally. You can give your dog the prescribed dosage once daily, with or without food. However, veterinarians prescribe the dosage depending on the dog’s body weight.
Previcox Dosage
Pet owners need to follow the doctor’s prescription medication when administering this drug.
The correct dosage of this chewable drug is 2.27 mg/lb (5.0 mg/kg). Again, only give your dog one tablet, the lowest effective dose each day. Again, however, you should follow the vet’s prescription because dosage may vary depending on the dog’s condition.
Veterinarians administer this medication 2 hours before or3 hours after surgery. It is used in the relief of pain the dog feels after surgical procedures. However, after getting home, you may forget to give your dog the next dosage.
If you forget, you should give your dog the drug immediately after remembering. However, your dog should skip the missed dose if it’s almost time to administer the next medication.
How Does Previcox Work?
Previcox is an NSAID that contains firocoxib. Firocoxib is an ace inhibitor. It works by selectively inhibiting cyclo-oxygenase-2 containing cyclo-oxygenase enzymes. Firocoxib blocks these enzymes to stop the production of pain-triggering substances called prostaglandins.
How Long Does Previcox Stay in the Dog’s System?
After administering Previcox to a dog, it remains in the system for several days. However, its elimination half-life is about 8 hours. However, the time this drug remains in the dog’s system may be affected by conditions such as kidney and liver diseases.
Signs of Previcox Overdose
Veterinarians prescribe Previcox dosage depending on a dog’s body weight. Your dog may suffer gastrointestinal perforation if given an overdose. Here are the signs that you have overdosed the dog with Previcox.
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of balance and seizures
- Lack of appetite
- Drinking plenty of water
- Jaundice
- Bloody stool
- Change in urination habits
- General body restlessness
- Rapid and heavy breathing
Does a Dog Need Monitoring After Taking Previcox?
The veterinarian may need to monitor signs of a medical problem after administering the dosage. This way, the vet checks the drug’s efficacy on your dog. Mainly, the vet monitors the liver enxymes, kidney, bladder, electrolytes, and physical examination to analyze the condition of your dog.
Sometimes, monitoring is vital if the dog is under other pain-relieving drugs. Again, the vet recommends close monitoring after medication. Thus, extreme caution is crucial if your dog suffers from various conditions, including;
- Low blood pressure
- Bleeding disorders
- Low blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Gastrointestinal ulcerations
- Hepatic dysfunction
When to Avoid Previcox Therapy in Dogs
Though Previcox is recommended for Osteoarthritis, you may expose your dog to the greatest risk of death. Veterinarians don’t recommend the drug if;
- The dog has an allergic reaction to the active ingredient
- Dogs under other nephrotoxic drugs
- The dog is old
- The puppies are below 7 months old
- The dog is dehydrated
- The dog using other drugs that interact with Previcox
- The dog is undergoing concomitant diuretic therapy
Drug Interactions with Previcox for Dogs
Previcox may interact with other drugs and affect the metabolism of Previcox chewable tablets. Therefore, always talk to the veterinarian before a Previcox prescription. Medications known to interact with Previcox include;
- Other inhibitory NSAIDs
- Aspirin
- Corticosteroids
Benefits of Previcox for Dogs
Safe use of Previcox chewable tablets is commonly used to treat inflammation. The vet prescribes this medication during treatment and orthopedic surgery to relieve pain. This is because of elevated levels of pain.
However, though there are several risks, safe use of Previcox has many benefits, including;
Easy Oral Administration
Previcox is a chewable tablet. This makes it easy to administer in dogs of all ages. This way, you don’t have to worry if a vet prescribes a dosage for your dog. Then, again, you can administer the medication yourself without the help of others.
Lowers Inflammation Levels
Dogs may suffer from inflamed knees, spine, wrists, and hips. Inflammation is a painful condition that affects dogs despite the months of age. Symptoms of a dog suffering from osteoarthritis include;
- Stiff joints
- Abnormal walking
- Change in playing activities and food consumption
- Licking joints
However, all these symptoms may go away after a dog takes the recommended dosage of Previcox. The vet may also perform a renal perfusion during treatment to improve kidney function. Thus, this medication reduces pain and increases a dog’s lifespan.
Quick Healing Results
Despite the condition of your dog, Previcox works fast. After administering the drug, the dog becomes active. Again, it walks better because the joints are no longer painful. These are signs that the drug is working despite the side effects.
Administered With or Without Food
Previcox efficacy is high when administered to the dog at any moment. Thus, you don’t have to worry that your dog’s stomach is empty or full during administration. However, it would be best to tell your veterinarian whether your dog is under other medications. So, again, always answer the client information sheet correctly.
Administered to Dogs Above 12.5 lbs.
Sometimes, puppies with weeks of age may suffer from inflammation. However, a veterinary describes a Previcox dosage depending on your dog’s weight. Luckily, dogs with over 12.5 lbs. can take the drug for the control of pain.
What to Do If You Need Emergency Services After Administering Previcox to Your Dog?
Previcox drugs are recommended for dogs weighing more than 12.5 lbs. It’s crucial to talk to a vet though the drug is suitable with or without food. This helps prevent the risks of Previcox, such as nausea or vomiting.
Despite following these instructions, you may need a vet. This is after your dog exhibits severe symptoms such as heavy breathing. Calling a vet immediately may save the life of your dog.
How to Store Previcox
You should store Previcox for dogs at a room temperature of 30 degrees. But, again, ensure to keep this drug out of reach of children or other pets in the house.
Are there Alternatives to Previcox for Dogs?
Previcox has many benefits. However, some dogs experience severe side effects after taking Previcox. There are several alternatives to Previcox for dogs to avoid allergic reactions and severe side effects. The vet may also prescribe a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Here are the recommended options for Previcox, and each has a different brand name.
Tramadol for Dogs
These are synthetic opioid drugs. They are used to relieve pain caused by inflammatory conditions. However, the next dose of Tramadol needs to be given after every 8 to 12 hours. But, again, this medication can be administered with other pain-relieving drugs.
Other NSAIDs for Dogs
All NSAIDs are pain-relieving medications. However, Previcox may not be the best choice for your dog. Therefore, the veterinarian recommends other NSAIDs, including;
- Deramaxx
- Metacam
- Rimadyl
- Etogesic
CBD Oil for Dogs
These are organically produced pain-relieving drugs. Their ingredients include oil and treats. Again, cannabidiol products are sweet-tasting and boost your dog’s immunity.
Joint Supplements for Dogs
Sometimes, the veterinarian may recommend joint supplements for your dog. However, the vet may prescribe these supplements in conjunction with pain meds.
This depends on the condition of the dog. Some ingredients used to make these supplements include fish oil, vitamin C, glucosamine HCL, and manganese gluconate.
Some dogs respond quickly after taking these supplements.
However, it would be best to ask your vet about the next dosage of supplements. This helps to avoid recurring muscular-skeletal inflammation in your dogs.
Dogs require immediate treatment after experiencing inflammation symptoms. Though Previcox is one of the best NSAIDs, it’s best to monitor your dog after every dosage.
This way, the vet can recommend other anti-inflammatory drugs in conjunction with adjunctive therapy for your dog. Again, always call a professional vet if your dog suffers from severe symptoms.
13 Possible Previcox Side Effects in Dogs
This chewable tablet may have several adverse effects. Though it reduces pain and inflammation, the common side effects of Previcox include;
- Kidney problems
- Nausea
- Decreased food appetite due to liver problems
- Jaundice
- Unexpected weight loss
- Yellowing of skin and eyes
- Change in bowel movements
- Increased drinking of water
- Foul-smelling urine
- Skin issues, including redness and scabs
- Decreased activity levels
- Aggression
- Scratching
Summary
Many dog owners are worried when giving dogs a prescribed medication. The important thing to remember is that your veterinarian has made the best choice possible for your furry friend.
Veterinarians make decisions on the best prescriptions for dogs based on medical history, weight, whether your dog is on other medications, and much more.
If you are worried or concerned about Previcox for your dog, we always advise speaking to a veterinarian.
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