Switching NSAIDs in practice: insights from the Previcox (firocoxib) Experience Trial.

Veterinarians currently have a choice of six registered NSAIDs for use in the management of canine osteoarthritis. There is a need for data to clarify whether there is an increased risk of side effects occurring in the event of a switch between different members of the NSAID class. In this retrospective analysis of extensive data collected in the 1,000 dog Previcox (firocoxib, Merial) Experience Trial, the incidence of side effects in dogs reported as treated with an NSAID 7 days or less before enrollment was compared with that in dogs reported as not having received an NSAID in the equivalent period.

Clinical effectiveness and safety of a new NSAID, firocoxib: a 1,000 dog study.

For the Previcox (firocoxib, Merial) Experience Trial, practicing veterinarians across the United States were asked to enroll dogs diagnosed with osteoarthritis (OA). At an initial visit, owners of dogs deemed suitable for NSAID therapy were given Previcox and instructed to maintain a daily diary and to return 10 and 40 days after treatment began. Approximately 86% of the 1,002 enrolled dogs completed the study.