Firocoxib Tablet
Firocoxib is an FDA-approved preparation containing Firocoxib, for veterinary use. Available by prescription.
Veterinarians most commonly consider firocoxib when a patient presents with clinical signs of discomfort associated with osteoarthritis or following specialized surgical procedures. Firocoxib is the active ingredient in Equioxx® for horses and Previcox® for dogs, the FDA-approved commercial NSAID formulations. Mixlab dispenses the branded commercial formats and also compounds firocoxib into alternative preparations, providing veterinarians the flexibility to customize therapy based on a patient's size and ease of administration.
At a pharmacological level, firocoxib acts as a highly selective inhibitor of the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme. In the body, COX-2 is the primary enzyme responsible for the production of prostaglandins that mediate inflammation and sensitivity to discomfort. By targeting this specific enzyme while sparing COX-1—which supports stomach and kidney health—the medication may be considered in the context of limiting pain and manage the physiological signs of joint stress. Your veterinarian will determine if firocoxib is appropriate based on your pet’s weight and results from diagnostic blood chemistry profiles.
The actions described here reflect the product's FDA-approved labeling; your veterinarian determines the appropriate use for your animal.
Prescription only. Use only under the direction of a licensed veterinarian. This information is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, prescribing or monitoring.
Commonly observed effects of firocoxib include gastrointestinal changes such as vomiting, decreased appetite or loose stools. Because all NSAIDs can influence renal and hepatic systems, your veterinarian will monitor for changes in kidney or liver function through periodic blood work. In some patients, owners may observe behavioral shifts or localized skin irritation. If you observe significant lethargy, dark or tarry stools, persistent vomiting or signs of physical distress, contact your veterinarian promptly.This medication is typically used with extra caution or avoided in patients with known kidney or liver impairment, pre-existing gastrointestinal ulcers or dehydration. It is also carefully evaluated in pregnant, breeding or lactating animals, as the safety profile for developing offspring is a point of professional consideration. Before starting a protocol involving firocoxib, ensure your veterinarian has a complete history of all other prescriptions and supplements your pet is receiving, as it may interact with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids. Your veterinarian is the right person to design a comprehensive monitoring plan and provide specific guidance on the duration of use to ensure the management approach remains suitable for your pet's individual health status. Always consult your veterinarian about the appropriate duration of use and whether your horse's competitive status requires a withdrawal period. Firocoxib (an NSAID) is subject to detection in equine medication-testing programs and specific withdrawal times vary by jurisdiction and governing body.
Yes. Firocoxib is a prescription medication and can only be dispensed by a licensed pharmacy upon receipt of a valid authorization from a licensed veterinarian. Mixlab verifies all prescriptions before any medication is prepared or sent to your home or stable.
Yes. While firocoxib is available in various commercial tablet and paste formats, Mixlab can compound this medication into specialized strengths or flavored dosage forms—such as flavored oral liquids or chews—if your veterinarian determines a customized preparation better suits your pet's needs. The decision between a commercial and compounded product rests with the prescribing veterinarian.
Veterinarians discuss firocoxib as a COX-2 selective inhibitor, which distinguishes it from older, non-selective anti-inflammatory medications. This selectivity is studied for its ability to target the enzymes involved in inflammation while minimizing impact on the enzymes that support normal stomach and kidney health.
Owners should monitor for digestive shifts, such as a change in appetite or stools and observe the animal's general energy levels and behavior. It is important to report any persistent vomiting or signs of abdominal discomfort to your veterinarian to ensure the management approach remains appropriate.
