Deramaxx for Dogs: A Pain Medication for Arthritis and After Surgery
Key takeaways:
Deramaxx is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can treat pain and inflammation in dogs.
The most common side effect associated with Deramaxx is stomach upset, including decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Deramaxx comes in chewable tablets. Your veterinarian will determine the best dosage for your dog based on their weight and the condition being treated.
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Table of contents
If your dog has arthritis or an acute injury, you’ve probably noticed some signs of pain. To help manage your dog’s pain, your veterinarian may prescribe deracoxib (Deramaxx).
This medication blocks chemical signals in the body that contribute to pain and inflammation, making your dog more comfortable. Side effects may occur, but fortunately, serious side effects are rare.
Let’s take a look at the details, so you know what to expect if your dog is prescribed Deramaxx.
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Deramaxx for dogs at a glance
Common names | Deracoxib (Deramaxx) |
What it treats | Pain and inflammation |
How it comes (forms) | Chewable tablets |
Common side effects | Decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea |
Average cost |
What is Deramaxx for dogs and how does it work?
Deramaxx is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). You may already be familiar with this type of medication; people often take NSAIDs like ibuprofen for their own aches and pains. You can’t give human NSAIDs to dogs because they’re toxic. However, veterinary NSAIDs like Deramaxx can safely and effectively treat pain in pets.
Deramaxx works by blocking the body’s production of prostaglandins. These substances are associated with pain and inflammation. By blocking prostaglandin production, Deramaxx reduces these symptoms in dogs.
What is Deramaxx used for in dogs?
Deramaxx treats pain and inflammation. So veterinarians prescribe Deramaxx for a variety of conditions. It’s FDA approved to treat arthritis and pain after surgery. But that’s not all your vet might prescribe this medication for.
Your veterinarian may prescribe Deramaxx to treat pain and inflammation caused by:
Injuries (wounds, broken bones, muscle sprains/strains)
Surgery (spay, neuter, dental extraction)
Some types of cancer
How is Deramaxx dosed and given for dogs?
Deramaxx is a once-daily chewable tablet. It’s available in four different tablet sizes: 12 mg, 25 mg, 75 mg, and 100 mg. Your veterinarian will determine the best Deramaxx dose for your dog.
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The dose is based on your dog’s weight and the condition being treated. If your dog is prescribed Deramaxx for pain after surgery, they may only take the medication for a few days. But to treat arthritis, your dog may need to take Deramaxx every day for a longer period of time.
Your veterinarian may prescribe a higher dose for the first few days of treatment, and then a lower dose in following days. In some situations, this approach can maximize the benefits of Deramaxx while minimizing the risk of side effects. In other cases, you may give the same dose of Deramaxx every day.
Follow your veterinarian’s instructions closely when giving Deramaxx.
What are the common side effects of Deramaxx in dogs?
Although NSAIDs offer numerous benefits, they can also have side effects. Humans taking NSAIDs may experience gastrointestinal distress, and dogs are no different.
The most common gastrointestinal effects associated with Deramaxx include:
Decreased appetite
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
You can reduce the risk of these side effects by giving Deramaxx with a full meal.
If your dog develops any gastrointestinal problems while taking Deramaxx, stop giving the medication and contact your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will help you determine the best course of action for your pet.
What are the most serious risks of Deramaxx for dogs?
There are a few serious potential health risks associated with the use of Deramaxx in dogs:
Gastrointestinal ulcers: Like people taking NSAIDs for chronic ailments, dogs can experience stomach or intestinal ulcers with Deramaxx use. Fortunately, this effect is rare. Deramaxx is significantly less likely to cause ulcers than aspirin treatment.
Liver disease: Deramaxx may worsen pre-existing liver disease. Additionally, a very small number of dogs may have an idiosyncratic (unpredictable) reaction to the medication that causes liver injury.
Kidney disease: Deramaxx may exacerbate pre-existing kidney disease.
Your veterinarian will perform blood tests before starting your dog on a prolonged course of Deramaxx. Dogs with normal blood tests are less likely to have pre-existing liver disease, so they are less likely to develop liver problems while on this medication.
Dogs on long-term Deramaxx also need regular monitoring. Your veterinarian will perform regular physical exams and blood tests, so any side effects associated with Deramaxx can be found and treated quickly.
Does Deramaxx interact with any other dog medications?
Deramaxx and other NSAIDs can interact with a variety of other medications. Be sure your veterinarian knows about anything your dog is taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and nutritional supplements. This will help your veterinarian avoid potential interactions.
Do not combine Deramaxx with other NSAIDs or steroids (such as prednisone). This significantly increases the risk of harmful effects.
Other medications that may interact with Deramaxx include:
ACE inhibitors
Anticoagulants
Cyclosporine
Diuretics
Some antibiotics
Some medications for diabetes
Some chemotherapy medications
What should you do if your dog misses a dose of Deramaxx?
If your dog misses a dose of Deramaxx, give the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your dog’s next dose, then skip the missed dose. Instead, give your dog their scheduled dose as soon as it is time to do so.
The bottom line
Deramaxx is a safe and effective treatment for pain and inflammation in dogs. It’s often used to treat pain after surgery or arthritis pain. However, like NSAIDs in humans, Deramaxx can cause side effects. The most common side effects in dogs include vomiting, loss of appetite, and diarrhea. Work with your veterinarian before and during treatment to minimize potential risks to your pet while maximizing the benefits associated with this medication.
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References
Brooks, W. (2020). Deracoxib (Deramaxx). Veterinary Partner.
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. (n.d.). NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) medication guide for animals.
Deramaxx. (n.d.). Reliable pain relief for dogs, big and small.
DVM360. (2003). Deramaxx receives FDA approval for canine osteoarthritis.
Novartis Animal Health US, Inc. (2002). Deramaxx chewable tablets (deracoxib) [package insert].
Sennello, K. A., et al. (2008). Effects of deracoxib or buffered aspirin on the gastric mucosa of healthy dogs. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine.
