Deracoxib
4-[3-(difluoromethyl)-5-(3-fluoro-4methoxyphenyl)-1H-pyrazole-1-yl] benzenesulfonamide
Also known as: Deramaxx
Reviewed by the VetSheet Veterinary TeamUpdated Apr 5, 2026Evidence-based veterinary reference
Doses are a clinical reference for licensed veterinary professionals. Always confirm against the current label and the individual patient.
Dosing by species
🌎 NA — North America🌍 EU — Europe
Dogs
| Indication | Dose | Route | Frequency | Duration | Region |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis | 1-2 mg/kg PO once a day as needed | PO | q24h | Ongoing | 🌎 NA |
| Treatment of post-operative pain | 3-4 mg/kg PO once a day as needed | PO | q24h | Not to exceed 7 days of therapy at this dosage | 🌎 NA |
Doses are a clinical reference for licensed veterinary professionals. Always confirm against the current label and the individual patient.
Overview
Deracoxib is a coxib-class non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) specifically formulated for veterinary use. It is FDA-approved for dogs to manage pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and for post-operative pain management.
- Clinical Pearl: Like piroxicam, deracoxib has shown potential as an adjunctive treatment for transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the bladder due to COX-2 overexpression in these tumors.
- It is highly palatable (chewable), which aids in compliance but significantly increases the risk of accidental overdose if left accessible to pets.
Mechanism of action
Deracoxib is a selective COX-2 inhibitor (coxib).
- Arachidonic Acid Cascade: It inhibits the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme → decreases the synthesis of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins (e.g., PGE2) responsible for pain, inflammation, and fever.
- At therapeutic doses, it largely spares COX-1, the constitutive enzyme responsible for maintaining normal gastrointestinal mucosal integrity, renal blood flow, and platelet function.
- Note: COX-2 selectivity is dose-dependent. At higher doses, COX-1 inhibition occurs, increasing the risk of gastrointestinal and renal toxicity.
Safety & warnings
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to deracoxib
Adverse effects
- Vomiting
- Anorexia/weight loss
- Diarrhea
- Melena
- Hematemesis
- Hematochezia
- GI ulceration/perforation
- Azotemia
- Polydipsia/polyuria
- Urinary tract infection (UTI)
- Hematuria
- Urinary incontinence
- Renal failure
- Anemia
- Thrombocytopenia
- Elevated hepatic enzymes
- Changes in total protein
- Lethargy/weakness
- Seizures
- Tachypnea
- Bradycardia
- Cough
- Fever
- Facial/muzzle edema
- Urticaria
- Dermatitis
Precautions
Use with caution in patients with concurrent GI ulcerative diseases, renal or hepatic dysfunction, those in hypoproteinemic states, or with conditions that may predispose them to hypercoagulability. Safety in pregnant or nursing animals has not been established. Avoid concurrent use with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids.
Drug interactions
NSAIDs can reduce effects on blood pressure. Concurrent use may increase the risk for renal injury due to reduced renal blood flow.
May increase the risk of gastrointestinal toxicity (ulceration, bleeding, vomiting, diarrhea). A multi-day washout period is warranted when switching.
May significantly increase the risk of gastrointestinal toxicity (ulceration, bleeding, vomiting, diarrhea).
NSAIDs may increase serum levels of digoxin.
May increase plasma levels of deracoxib (extrapolated from human celecoxib data).
NSAIDs may reduce saluretic and diuretic effects.
Serious toxicity has occurred when NSAIDs are used concomitantly; use with extreme caution.
May enhance the risk of developing nephrotoxicity.
May increase the risk of gastrointestinal toxicity (ulceration, bleeding, vomiting, diarrhea).
Monitoring
- Baseline and periodic CBC and serum chemistry (including BUN/serum creatinine, and liver function assessment)
- Baseline history and physical
- Efficacy of therapy
- Adverse effect monitoring via client
Pharmacokinetics
Half-life
Absorption
Bioavailability is >90% in dogs; Tmax occurs at approximately 2 hours. The presence of food in the gut can enhance bioavailability.
Distribution
Apparent volume of distribution is 1.5 L/kg in dogs. It is at least 90% bound to canine plasma proteins.
Metabolism
Hepatically metabolized to four primary metabolites.
Elimination
Metabolites and unchanged drug are principally eliminated in the feces. Some excretion occurs via renal mechanisms. Non-linear elimination occurs at higher dosages.
Overdose
Acute toxicity data indicates non-linear elimination occurs in dogs at dosages of 10 mg/kg and above.
- 10 mg/kg/day: No clinically observable adverse effects in a 14-day study, though focal tubular necrosis was seen in 3 of 10 dogs in a 6-month safety study.
- 25-100 mg/kg/day: Dogs survived 10-11 days but showed vomiting and melena.
- Clinical Signs of Overdose: Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and elevated creatinine.
Treatment: Decontamination with emetics and/or activated charcoal is appropriate for acute ingestions. The ASPCA APCC recommends GI protectants at acute dosages of 15 mg/kg and above, and IV fluid diuresis at dosages of 30 mg/kg and above in healthy dogs. Monitor for GI erosion/ulceration and treat symptomatically.
Available products
Formulations
- Chewable tablets
Veterinary
- Deracoxib Chewable (scored) Tablets: 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, & 100 mg (Deramaxx)
Regulatory status
No regulatory data for: 🇺🇸 US · 🇪🇺 EU · 🇬🇧 UK · 🇭🇰 HK · 🇹🇼 TW · 🇯🇵 JP · 🇰🇷 KR · 🇦🇺 AU
Storage & stability
Store at room temperature between 15-30°C (59-86°F).
Client information
Storage Warning: These tablets are highly flavored and dogs may eat the entire bottle if they find it. Keep strictly out of reach of pets and children.
- Administration: Although it can be given on an empty stomach, it is preferable to give with food to enhance absorption and protect the stomach. Ensure fresh water is always available to avoid dehydration.
- What to Watch For: Stop the medication and contact your vet immediately if you notice:
- Vomiting or loss of appetite
- Black, tarry stools or bloody diarrhea
- Changes in drinking or urination habits
- Lethargy or behavioral changes
- Signs of allergic reaction (facial swelling, hives, red/itchy skin)
- Do Not Mix: Never give this medication with other pain medications, NSAIDs (like human aspirin/ibuprofen), or steroids without explicit veterinary approval.
- Dosing: Do not increase or alter the dose without veterinary approval.
VetSheet drug reference is intended for licensed veterinary professionals as a clinical decision-support aid, not a substitute for professional judgement or the manufacturer’s current label.