Previcox - uses, possible side effects, and best places to buy
Previcox (the brand name for the drug firocoxib) was developed to treat osteoarthritis, (arthritis or degenerative joint disease) in dogs. It is proving to be one of the most effective and safe pain relieving drugs available for dogs. It belongs to the same general group of drugs as aspirin, paracetamol and ibuprofen. (The so-called Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, or NSAIDS.) However Previcox for dogs is much more effective at reducing pain and inflammation than those, yet has a much lower incidence of side effects. However that does not mean that side effects do not occur. It is simply that Previcox is likely to work better and more safely.To buy Previcox for Dogs, click here.
What are the possible side effects of Previcox (firocoxib)?
The first thing to say is that these are rare. Most vets who prescribe Previcox are very aware of the possible side-effects, take great care to ensure that Previcox is used safely, and never see any significant problems at all. It is so safe that the average vet will probably never experience a serious problem even after using this drug for great many patients for many years.For the technically minded, Previcox (firocoxib) belongs to the class of NSAIDS which are highly selective for the COX-2 inflammatory enzyme over the COX-1 form (380 fold according to the manufacturer's data). This means that the beneficial effects are much more powerful than the potential to cause side effects.
If things do go wrong they can however be serious. The most common problem affects the lining of the stomach or intestines, causing vomiting or diarrhoea. These usually stop soon after the medication is withdrawn and are not very bad. However they can on occasions cause serious damage to the gut lining, especially if the drug continues to be given despite these symptoms. Ulceration and serious, possibly fatal illness can occur. Therefore if a dog goes off its food or shows any vomiting or diarrhoea while on Previcox, or any other NSAID for that matter, it is important to stop giving the Previcox and contact your vet immediately. (It is also important never to give two different NSAIDS, or give them along with steroids, without very careful assessment of the increased risks.)
Very rarely other problems will occur. Kidney damage can happen, especially in dehydrated animals, or if some kidney disorder is already present. Problems involving the liver or nerve tissues have been reported as well. The thing to bear in mind is that any drug can cause unwanted side-effects, so these have to be considered as well as the useful effects. Although we might wish otherwise, it is generally true that the most harmless and safe medications provide little if any real benefit. The more “powerful” medications can make a real difference, but not completely without risk. That potential risk needs to be looked at with regard to the benefit. Previcox would not be appropriate to give an elderly dog (with perhaps reduced kidney function) just because it has suffered a tiny graze on its elbow and might be a little uncomfortable. However if the same dog is suffering with stiff and sore joints, not really able to enjoy walks properly, then it might be quite unfair not to consider the use of Previcox. (Blood and urine tests can be performed first to check for underlying problems.) It is sad but true that every year hundreds of people are killed in road traffic accidents, but most of us still travel by car. The small risk is worth the great benefit. This is usually the case when Previcox is prescribed.
Where to buy Previcox?
You can buy Previcox for dogs from your vet. Alternatively you can ask your vet for a written prescription, then buy Previcox at a much lower price from VioVet the trusted online supplier.
Article written by:
John Cousins BVSc MRCVS - A veterinary surgeon from VioVet - Online Pet Store & Pharmacy.
The article reflects the opinions of the author and should only be used as a guide. It can only be taken in conjunction with advice from your vet. No liability is accepted for accuracy of content or any other matter.
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