Previcox Dangers

Previcox is prescribed by veterinarians to treat osteoarthritis in dogs. It's a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID, that controls your dog's pain and inflammation. While Previcox is effective in treating osteoarthritis in dogs and provides relief for pain, there are some dangers associated with its use. You should stop giving your dog Previcox immediately and notify your veterinarian if your dog seems to be having side effects or complications from the drug.

  1. Stomach, Kidney and Liver Problems

    • The most common danger or side effect associated with Previcox involves the stomach and digestive tract. Liver and kidney problems have been reported as well in dogs being treated with NSAIDs. Previcox may cause changes in your dog's appetite, vomiting, diarrhea and black or bloody stools. You may also notice that your dog is drinking more and therefore his frequency of urination increases. Due to stomach irritation, your dog may lose weight.

    Behavioral Changes

    • According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Previcox may cause your dog to become uncoordinated or unusually aggressive or have seizures.

    Jaundice

    • Previcox has been known to cause jaundice in some dogs. Jaundice symptoms include yellowing of your dog's gums, skin and the whites of his eyes.

    Allergic Reaction

    • If your dog is allergic to or had a reaction to other NSAIDs or medications containing Previcox's active ingredient firocoxib, you should not treat him with Previcox. Symptoms of an allergic reaction or sensitivity include skin rashes, crusting or scabs. Your dog may also begin scratching because his skin is itchy. A severe allergic reaction can lead to death.

    Death

    • Previcox should not be given to dogs under seven weeks old or that weigh less than 12.5 pounds. The FDA warns that serious adverse reactions, including death, have resulted when Previcox is given to puppies less than seven months of age.

    Drug Interactions

    • The FDA warns that Previcox may interact with other drugs and cause life-threatening reactions. Tell your vet about any medications your dog is taking, including herbal or natural remedies. Previcox should not be administered to your dog if he is taking other NSAIDs such as aspirin, deracoxib, carprofen, tepolxalin, meloxicam or etodolac, or corticosteroids like prednisone, cortisone, triamcinolone or dexamthasone.