Previcox Chewable Tablets

Generic name: firocoxib tablet, chewable
Dosage form: FOR ANIMAL USE ONLY

For oral use in dogs only.

Caution

Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.

Description

PREVICOX (firocoxib) belongs to the coxib class of non-narcotic, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Firocoxib is a white crystalline compound described chemically as 3-(cyclopropylmethoxy)-4-(4-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl)- 5,5-dimethylfuranone. The empirical formula is C17H20O5S, and the molecular weight is 336.4. The structural formula is shown below:

Pharmacokinetics

The absolute bioavailability of PREVICOX (firocoxib) is approximately 38% when administered as a 5 mg/kg oral dose to fasted adult dogs. Firocoxib is rapidly cleared from the blood via hepatic metabolism and fecal excretion (CLsystemic = ~0.4 L/hr/kg). Despite a high level of plasma protein binding (96%), firocoxib exhibits a large volume of distribution (Vdλ of total drug = ~4.6 L/kg) and a terminal elimination half life of 7.8 hours (%CV = 30%). The oral drug absorption process is highly variable among subjects. Co-administration of PREVICOX with food delays drug absorption (Tmax from 1 to 5 hours) and decreases peak concentrations (Cmax from 1.3 to 0.9 mcg/mL). However, food does not affect the overall oral bioavailability at the recommended dose.

Indications

PREVICOX (firocoxib) Chewable Tablets are indicated for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and for the control of postoperative pain and inflammation associated with soft-tissue and orthopedic surgery in dogs.

Dosage and Administration

Always provide the Client Information Sheet with prescription. Carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of PREVICOX and other treatment options before deciding to use PREVICOX. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual response. The recommended dosage of PREVICOX (firocoxib) for oral administration in dogs is 2.27 mg/lb (5.0 mg/kg) body weight once daily as needed for osteoarthritis and for 3 days as needed for postoperative pain and inflammation associated with soft-tissue and orthopedic surgery. The dogs can be treated with PREVICOX approximately two hours prior to surgery. The tablets are scored and dosage should be calculated in half tablet increments. Previcox Chewable Tablets can be administered with or without food.

Contraindications

Dogs with known hy...