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COX-2 selective NSAID · For Dogs

Previcox dosage reference for dogs (Firocoxib)

This page's standard weight-based reference is 5 mg per kg (2.27 mg per lb), with Once daily recorded as the reference frequency. Use the calculator to see the arithmetic for your dog's weight, then confirm the indication, product, and actual dose with a veterinarian.

Onset
1-2 hours
Duration
24 hours
Class
COX-2 selective NSAID

Weight-based calculator estimate from the references listed on this page. This page has not been independently DVM-reviewed — see our methodology .

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian before giving medication to your pet. Do not use this calculator for emergencies, overdoses, pregnancy, very young animals, very old animals, pets with liver/kidney disease, or pets taking multiple medications.

Each medication page lists the references recorded for its data. The calculator math and editorial presentation are maintained by PetDosageChart; a page is independently DVM-reviewed only when a named reviewer byline appears. See our methodology and limitations.

Firocoxib (often known by brand names such as Previcox) is a COX-2 selective NSAID commonly used in veterinary medicine for Osteoarthritis pain and inflammation, Post-surgical pain management, Chronic joint pain, and Soft tissue surgery recovery. Understanding the correct dosage, administration, and potential side effects of Firocoxib is critical for your dog’s safety and well-being.

A typical Firocoxib dose for dogs is around 5 mg/kg Once daily. Available forms include Chewable tablet.

Calculator Warning: Use this only as an educational estimate. Your veterinarian may prescribe a different dose based on your pet’s condition, age, weight, other medications, and medical history.

Firocoxib Dosage Calculator for Dogs

Enter your dog’s weight below to estimate the Firocoxib dose from the 5 mg/kg guideline. Your veterinarian may adjust it for your dog’s age, condition, and other medications, so treat the result as an educational starting point, not a prescription.

Dosage Calculator · 01

Enter your dog's weight

Quick Dosage Chart

Typical Firocoxib amounts for common dog weights, for quick reference:

Dosage Chart · 02

Previcox weight-based reference chart for dogs

Scroll sideways to see full table

Weight Lower Reference Standard Reference Upper Reference Frequency
5 lbs (2.3 kg) 11.5 mg 11.5 mg 11.5 mg Once daily
10 lbs (4.5 kg) 22.5 mg 22.5 mg 22.5 mg Once daily
15 lbs (6.8 kg) 34.0 mg 34.0 mg 34.0 mg Once daily
20 lbs (9.1 kg) 45.5 mg (57mg tablet) 45.5 mg (57mg tablet) 45.5 mg (57mg tablet) Once daily
25 lbs (11.3 kg) 56.5 mg (57mg tablet) 56.5 mg (57mg tablet) 56.5 mg (57mg tablet) Once daily
30 lbs (13.6 kg) 68.0 mg (57mg tablet) 68.0 mg (57mg tablet) 68.0 mg (57mg tablet) Once daily
40 lbs (18.1 kg) 90.5 mg 90.5 mg 90.5 mg Once daily
50 lbs (22.7 kg) 113.5 mg (2 × 57mg) 113.5 mg (2 × 57mg) 113.5 mg (2 × 57mg) Once daily
60 lbs (27.2 kg) 136.0 mg 136.0 mg 136.0 mg Once daily
70 lbs (31.7 kg) 158.5 mg (3 × 57mg) 158.5 mg (3 × 57mg) 158.5 mg (3 × 57mg) Once daily
80 lbs (36.3 kg) 181.5 mg (3 × 57mg) 181.5 mg (3 × 57mg) 181.5 mg (3 × 57mg) Once daily
90 lbs (40.8 kg) 204.0 mg 204.0 mg 204.0 mg Once daily
100 lbs (45.4 kg) 227.0 mg (4 × 57mg) 227.0 mg (4 × 57mg) 227.0 mg (4 × 57mg) Once daily
120 lbs (54.4 kg) 272.0 mg (5 × 57mg) 272.0 mg (5 × 57mg) 272.0 mg (5 × 57mg) Once daily
150 lbs (68 kg) 340.0 mg (6 × 57mg) 340.0 mg (6 × 57mg) 340.0 mg (6 × 57mg) Once daily

Parenthetical tablet amounts are arithmetic comparisons only. They do not account for scoring, release type, concentration, product labeling, or whether this medication is appropriate for an individual animal.

By Weight

Previcox reference by dog weight

Choose a common weight to open its optional reference page. Use the main medication calculator for a different exact weight.

Common-weight pages are convenience views of the same educational reference, not separate medical recommendations.

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How to Give Firocoxib to Your Dog

Give the Previcox chewable tablet by mouth once daily with food to reduce stomach upset. Most dogs accept the flavored chewable readily. The dose is 5 mg/kg — your vet will prescribe the appropriate tablet size. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. NEVER combine with other NSAIDs (like carprofen, meloxicam, or aspirin) or corticosteroids (prednisone, dexamethasone). Ensure your dog is well-hydrated and eating before each dose. Monitor for signs of GI upset throughout treatment.

It is generally recommended to give Firocoxib with food to help reduce stomach upset. It may interact with Other NSAIDs (NEVER combine), Corticosteroids (greatly increases GI ulcer risk), ACE inhibitors, Diuretics, and Anticoagulants (aspirin, warfarin).

Side Effects and Safety

Common side effects include Decreased appetite, Vomiting, Diarrhea, and Soft stool. More serious side effects can occur, such as GI ulceration or bleeding, Kidney damage, Liver damage, and Intestinal perforation.

Cautions · 12

When Previcox should be used with caution or avoided

Some dogs should not take Previcox, or need a different dose and closer monitoring. Tell your veterinarian about your pet's full health history and every other medication or supplement they take before giving Previcox.

  • Dogs with known GI ulcers or bleeding
  • Kidney disease
  • Liver disease
  • Concurrent use with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids
  • Dehydration or hypovolemia
  • Puppies under 10 weeks

Interactions · 13

Previcox drug interactions

Previcox can interact with other drugs. This list is not complete — always give your veterinarian a full list of your dog's medications and supplements.

Other NSAIDs (NEVER combine)
Corticosteroids (greatly increases GI ulcer risk)
ACE inhibitors
Diuretics
Anticoagulants (aspirin, warfarin)

Calculator Limits · 14

When not to use this calculator

This calculator gives a general educational estimate for a healthy adult dog at a known weight. Do not rely on it in these situations — talk to your veterinarian instead:

  • In an emergency, or after accidental ingestion or a suspected overdose
  • For pregnant or nursing pets
  • For very young or very old dogs
  • For pets with liver disease, kidney disease, or another chronic illness
  • For pets taking several medications at once
  • When you are not sure of your dog's current, accurate weight
  • For combination products that contain additional active ingredients

Overdose · 15

Suspected overdose: what to do

If you think your dog had too much Previcox, or swallowed any medication by accident, act right away. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.

  • Call your veterinarian or the nearest emergency animal hospital.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435
  • Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

A consultation fee may apply to the poison hotlines. Have the medication packaging ready, and note how much your pet may have taken and when. Do not try to make your pet vomit unless a veterinarian tells you to.

When to Call the Vet

If your dog experiences any of the following, contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic immediately:

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked · 07

Questions about this medication

What makes Previcox different from other NSAIDs like carprofen?
Firocoxib (Previcox) is a COX-2 selective NSAID, meaning it preferentially blocks the COX-2 enzyme responsible for pain and inflammation while relatively sparing COX-1, which protects the stomach lining and supports kidney function. This selectivity may result in fewer GI side effects compared to less selective NSAIDs, though GI risks are not eliminated.
Can my dog take Previcox long-term for arthritis?
Yes, Previcox is approved for long-term use in managing osteoarthritis pain. However, regular veterinary monitoring is essential, including periodic blood work to check liver and kidney function. Your vet will typically recommend blood tests every 6-12 months during chronic use.
Why can't I give Previcox with prednisone or other NSAIDs?
Combining NSAIDs with corticosteroids (like prednisone) or other NSAIDs dramatically increases the risk of serious GI ulceration, bleeding, and kidney damage. There should be a washout period of at least 5-7 days when switching between NSAIDs or between an NSAID and a steroid.
What should I do if my dog vomits after taking Previcox?
A single episode of vomiting may not be serious — try giving the next dose with a full meal. However, if vomiting persists, or if you see blood in the vomit (looks like coffee grounds) or dark/tarry stools, stop the medication immediately and contact your vet, as these may indicate GI ulceration.
Is Previcox safe for young dogs after surgery?
Previcox is FDA-approved for post-surgical pain in dogs 12.5 weeks of age and older for soft tissue surgery and 6 months of age for orthopedic surgery. For post-surgical use, it is typically given for 3-7 days. Always follow your vet's specific dosing instructions.

Use This Guide Safely · 08

What weight alone cannot tell you

The calculator performs one narrow job: it multiplies your dog's weight by the lower, standard, and upper mg/kg values recorded for Previcox. It cannot decide whether this drug, indication, formulation, or schedule is appropriate for an individual animal.

Context in this medication record

Commonly listed uses
Osteoarthritis pain and inflammation, Post-surgical pain management, Chronic joint pain, Soft tissue surgery recovery
Recorded forms
Chewable tablet
Reference timing
Once daily; onset 1-2 hours; duration 24 hours

Individual checks a calculator cannot perform

  • Confirm the diagnosis and the reason this medication is being considered.
  • Match the exact product, concentration, route, and whether a tablet may be split.
  • Account for age, pregnancy, organ function, genetics, allergies, and prior reactions.
  • Review every prescription, over-the-counter product, and supplement your pet takes.

Recorded cautions

Dogs with known GI ulcers or bleeding; Kidney disease; Liver disease; Concurrent use with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids; Dehydration or hypovolemia; Puppies under 10 weeks.

Recorded interactions

Other NSAIDs (NEVER combine); Corticosteroids (greatly increases GI ulcer risk); ACE inhibitors; Diuretics; Anticoagulants (aspirin, warfarin).

These lists reproduce the structured record used by this page and may not be exhaustive. Show your veterinarian the product label and your dog's complete medication list before acting on a number.

Related · 08

Related medications for dogs

Sources · 09

Sources & references

The structured medication record behind this page names the references below. The links open the publisher or official resource; they do not turn this page into a prescription for an individual animal.

Source names are shown at the record level; passage-level page and label citations are still being added. Read our methodology and limitations.

Transparency · 11

How this page was made

This page's structured medication record includes Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook among its source names. PetDosageChart applies the record's mg/kg values to the entered weight and presents the arithmetic result. A source record is not the same as an individualized prescription or an independent clinical review.

Sources cited
  • Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
  • Merck Veterinary Manual
Calculator formula
Doses scale linearly from a standard basis of 5 mg per kg (2.27 mg per lb) of body weight, given Once daily. The calculator multiplies that basis by your dog's weight and shows an arithmetic comparison with recorded tablet sizes. That comparison does not determine whether a tablet is scored, splittable, or appropriate for your pet.
Editorial owner
Prepared and maintained by the PetDosageChart editorial team, a software-led publisher and not a veterinary practice.
DVM review status
Not independently DVM-reviewed. A named reviewer and review date appear here only after a confirmed review.

More on our methodology and editorial process — how we source, calculate, and review dogs dosage data.

Safety · 10

More resources