Deracoxib, also referred to as Deramaxx, is an analgesic and anti-inflammatory medication prescribed by veterinarians to alleviate painful symptoms in dogs following orthopedic surgery. Deracoxib is part of a class of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It acts by inhibiting a key enzyme (COX-2) involved in the inflammatory immune response. Speak with your veterinarian about the side effects associated with deracoxib before giving this medication to your dog.
Stomach Upset
The most common side effect associated with deracoxib treatment is stomach upset. While your dog is taking this medication, she can experience vomiting or diarrhea. In rare cases, using deracoxib can cause stomach ulcers to develop in some dogs. If your dog develops severe loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation or bloody stools, take him to your veterinarian immediately for further evaluation and care.
Increased Urination
Using deracoxib can cause kidney-related side effects to develop in some dogs. Drs. Foster & Smith warns that your dog can develop increased urination or thirst as a side effect of this medication. You may also notice that your dog's urine appears discolored or has a strong or unusual odor. Prolonged or excessive use of this drug in dogs can cause permanent kidney damage, which can be avoided by following your veterinarian's recommended dosing schedule.
Dry Eye
"The Veterinary Drug Handbook: Client Information Edition" warns that dogs receiving treatment with deracoxib can develop dry eye, a condition called keratoconjunctivitis sicca. Additional symptoms associated with dry eye can include squinting or eye discharge, which should be reported to your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Jaundice
If your dog is being treated with deracoxib, he can develop liver-related side effects. Symptoms such as yellowing of the eyes, skin or gums may indicate that your dog has a condition known as jaundice. This prescription should only be administered as prescribed to avoid severe or permanent liver damage.
Hives
While receiving treatment with deracoxib, your dog may exhibit skin-related side effects due to this medication. If your dog develops hives--red, swollen skin welts--she may scratch at her skin more frequently than usual or her skin can appear dry or flaky. This medication may also cause your dog's skin or face to appear swollen, which can cause the skin to be tender to the touch.
Allergic Reaction
In rare cases, your dog can experience a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction to deracoxib during treatment. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include seizures, pale gums, excessive vomiting or diarrhea, hives, facial swelling, loss of consciousness or coma. If your dog develops any of these symptoms after a dose of deracoxib, take her to an emergency veterinarian clinic immediately for further treatment.
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