Vetdrugs 2.0Firocoxib is a coxib-class nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug with selective inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2. Its principal veterinary applications are relief of osteoarthritis-associated pain and inflammation in dogs and horses. Canine products also have perioperative applications. Clinical use is based on species-specific formulations and the particular painful condition being treated.
Group
COX-2-selective NSAID
Mechanism of Action
Firocoxib preferentially inhibits cyclooxygenase-2, reducing conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandin precursors. Reduced production of inflammatory prostaglandins decreases sensitization of pain pathways, inflammatory swelling and prostaglandin-mediated fever. Relative sparing of cyclooxygenase-1 distinguishes its pharmacologic profile from that of less selective NSAIDs, while the extent of selectivity depends on the biological system and exposure.
Dose Rates
Dog
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pain and inflammation | 5 mg/kg | PO | Every 24 h | Do not use in: Concurrent NSAID or corticosteroid treatment |
Cat
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pain and inflammation | 1.5 mg/kg | PO | Once | Do not use in: Concurrent NSAID or corticosteroid treatment; Only limited single-dose evidence; long-term feline safety unestablished. |
Horse
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pain and inflammation | 0.1 mg/kg | PO | Every 24 h | Up to 14 days; Do not use in: Concurrent NSAID or corticosteroid treatment |
| Pain and inflammation | 0.09 mg/kg | IV | Every 24 h | Do not use in: Concurrent NSAID or corticosteroid treatment |
Cattle
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calf pain and inflammation | 0.5 mg/kg | PO, IV | Every 24 h | Do not use in: Concurrent NSAID or corticosteroid treatment; Studied calf regimen; not an established approval. |
Indications
- Relief of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs.
- Control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in horses.
- Control of postoperative pain and inflammation in dogs after indicated soft-tissue or orthopedic procedures.
- Selected specialist treatment of perioperative pain in horses, where supported by the formulation and clinical treatment plan.
Contraindications
- Use cautiously with GI disease, dehydration or renal disease.
- Breeding, pregnancy and lactation safety is incompletely established.
Interactions
- Do not combine with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids.
Adverse effects
- GI ulceration, vomiting and diarrhea
- Renal injury
- Oral lesions with excessive equine dosing
Preparations
| Preparation | Form | Strength | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Firocoxib 57 mg | Tablet | 57 mg / tablet | PO |
| Firocoxib 227 mg | Tablet | 227 mg / tablet | PO |
| Equioxx paste 8.2 mg/g | Paste | 8.2 mg / g | PO |
| Equioxx injection 20 mg/mL | Injection | 20 mg / mL | IV |
Monitoring and Administration
Monitor GI tolerance, renal function and hydration. Do not extrapolate canine doses to horses.
Equine oral course is limited to 14 days in the source; prolonged/high-dose exposure increases toxicity.