Deramaxx

Novartis Animal Health US, Inc.

Deramaxx

FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION: CONTENTS*

• References:

FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION

Deramaxx ( Deracoxib ) Chewable Tablets
For Oral Use In Dogs Only
Do Not Use in Cats

Federal Law (U.S.) restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.

DERAMAXX (deracoxib) is a non-narcotic, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) of the coxib class.  DERAMAXX tablets are round, biconvex, chewable tablets that contain deracoxib formulated with beefy flavoring.  The molecular weight of deracoxib is 397.38. The empirical formula is C₁₇-H₁₄-F₃-N₃-O₃-S.  Deracoxib is 4-[3-(difluoromethyl)-5-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)-1H-pyrazole-1-yl] benzenesulfonamide, and can be termed a diaryl substituted pyrazole.  The structural formula is:

Mode of Action:   
DERAMAXX tablets are a member of the coxib class of non-narcotic, non-steroidal, cyclooxygenase-inhibiting anti-inflammatory drugs for the control of postoperative pain and inflammation associated with orthopedic and dental surgery and for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs.

Data indicate that deracoxib inhibits the production of PGE1 and 6-keto PGF1 by its inhibitory effects on prostaglandin biosynthesis.¹  Deracoxib inhibited COX-2 mediated PGE2 production in LPS-stimulated human whole blood.²

Cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) is the enzyme responsible for facilitating constitutive physiological processes (e.g., platelet aggregation, gastric mucosal protection, renal perfusion).³  Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is responsible for the synthesis of inflammatory mediators.⁴  Both COX isoforms are constitutively expressed in the canine kidney.⁵  At doses of 2-4 mg/kg/day, DERAMAXX tablets do not inhibit COX-1 based on in vitro studies using cloned canine cyclooxygenase.⁶  The clinical relevance of this in vitro data has not been shown.

Although the plasma terminal elimination half-life for DERAMAXX tablets is approximately 3 hours, a longer duration of clinical effectiveness is observed.

Summary pharmacokinetics of DERAMAXX tablets are listed in Table 1.

^a Values obtained following a single 2.35 mg/kg dose
^b Estimates following IV administration of deracoxib as an aqueous solution
^c Based upon a dose of 2 mg/kg of deracoxib
^d Based upon in vitro plasma concentrations of 0.1, 0.3, 1.0, 3.0, 10.0 µg/ml

Non-linear elimination kinetics are exhibited at doses above 8 mg/kg/day, at which competitive inhibition of constitutive COX-1 may occur.

Deracoxib is not excreted as parent drug in the urine.  The major route of elimination of deracoxib is by hepatic biotransformation producing four major metabolites, two of which are characterized as products of oxidation and o-demethylation.  The majority of deracoxib is excreted in feces as parent drug or metabolite.

Large intersubject variability was observed in drug metabolite profiles of urine and feces.  No statistically significant differences between genders were observed.

Always provide “Information for Dog Owners” Sheet with prescription. Carefully consider the potential benefits and risk s of DERAMAXX and other treatment options before deciding to use DERMAXX. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual response.

Osteoarthritis Pain and Inflammation:

DERAMAXX Chewable Tablets are indicated for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs.

Osteoarthritis Pain and Inflammation: 0.45 – 0.91 mg/lb/day (1 to 2 mg/kg/day) as a single daily dose, as needed.  

Dogs needing a dose of less than 12.5 mg can only be accurately dosed through use of the 12 mg tablet, which can be broken in half to provide 6 mg. Do not attempt to accurately dose smaller dogs through the use of breaking larger tablets. Inaccurate dosing may result in adverse drug events (see Adverse Reactions, Animal Safety, and Post-Approval Experience). 

Postoperative Orthopedic Pain and Inflammation:

DERAMAXX Chewable Tablets are indicated for the control of postoperative pain and inflammation associated with orthopedic surgery in dogs.

Postoperative Orthopedic Pain and Inflammation: 1.4–1.8 mg/lb/day (3 to 4 mg/kg/day) as a single daily dose, as needed, not to exceed 7 days of administration.   

Dogs needing a dose of less than 12.5 mg can only be accurately dosed through use of the 12 mg tablet, which can be broken in half to provide 6 mg. Do not attempt to accurately dose smaller dogs through the use of breaking larger tablets. Inaccurate dosing may result in adverse drug events (see Adverse Reactions, Animal Safety, and Post-Approval Experience).

Postoperative Dental Pain and Inflammation:

DERAMAXX Chewable Tablets are indicated for the control of postoperative pain and inflammation associated with dental surgery in dogs.

Postoperative Dental Pain and Inflammation: 0.45 – 0.91 mg/lb/day (1 to 2 mg/kg/day) as a single daily dose, for 3 days.  The first dose should be given approximately 1 hour prior to dental surgery and subsequent doses should be given daily for up to two additional treatments.

Dogs needing a dose of less than 12.5 mg can only be accurately dosed through use of the 12 mg tablet, which can be broken in half to provide 6 mg. Do not attempt to accurately dose smaller dogs through the use of breaking larger tablets. Inaccurate dosing may result in adverse drug events (see Adverse Reactions, Animal Safety, and Post-Approval Experience).

Since DERAMAXX tablet bioavailability is greatest when taken with food, post-prandial administration is preferable.  However, DERAMAXX tablets have been shown to be effective under both fed and fasted conditions; therefore, they may be administered in the fasted state if necessary.  For postoperative orthopedic and dental pain, administer DERAMAXX tablets prior to the procedure. Tablets are scored and dosage should be calculated in half-tablet increments.  In clinical practice it is recommended to adjust the individual patient dose while continuing to monitor the dog's status until a minimum effective dose has been reached.

Dogs with known hypersensitivity to deracoxib should not receive DERAMAXX.

Not for use in humans.  Keep this and all medications out of reach of children. Consult a physician in case of accidental ingestion by humans.  For use in dogs only.   Do not use in cats.  

Dogs needing a dose of less than 12.5 mg can only be accurately dosed through use of the 12 mg tablet, which can be broken in half to provide 6 mg. Do not attempt to accurately dose smaller dogs through the use of breaking larger tablets. Inaccurate dosing may result in adverse drug events (see Adverse Reactions, Animal Safety, and Post-Approval Experience).

All dogs should undergo a thorough history and physical examination before the initiation of NSAID therapy. Appropriate laboratory tests to establish hematological and serum biochemical baseline data prior to, and periodically during, administration of any NSAID is recommended. Owners should be advised to observe for signs of potential drug toxicity (see Adverse Reactions, Animal Safety and Post-Approval Experience) and be given an “Information for Dog Owners” Sheet.

Dogs needing a dose of less than 12.5 mg can only be accurately dosed through use of the 12 mg tablet, which can be broken in half to provide 6 mg. Do not attempt to accurately dose smaller dogs through the use of breaking larger tablets. Inaccurate dosing may result in adverse drug events (see Adverse Reactions, Animal Safety, and Post-Approval Experience).

Since NSAIDs possess the potential to produce gastrointestinal ulceration and/or perforation, concomitant use of DERAMAXX tablets with other anti-inflammatory drugs, such as NSAIDs or corticosteroids, should be avoided. As a class, NSAIDs may be associated with gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic toxicity. The following collective group of clinical signs has been reported with some serious gastrointestinal events, in decreasing order of reported frequency: anorexia, tachycardia, tachypnea, pyrexia, ascites, pale mucous membranes, dyspnea. In some cases, circulatory shock, collapse and cardiac arrest have also been reported.  Sensitivity to drug-associated adverse events varies with the individual patient. Dogs that have experienced adverse reactions from one NSAID may experience adverse reactions from another NSAID. Patients at greatest risk for adverse events are those that are dehydrated, on concomitant diuretic therapy, or those with existing renal, cardiovascular, and/or hepatic dysfunction. Plasma levels of deracoxib may increase in a greater than dose-proportional fashion above 8 mg/kg/day. DERAMAXX tablets have been safely used during field studies in conjunction with other common medications, including heartworm preventatives, anthelmintics, anesthetics, pre-anesthetic medications, and antibiotics. If additional pain medication is needed after a daily dose of DERAMAXX tablets, a non-NSAID/non-corticosteroid class of analgesic may be necessary. It is not known whether dogs with history of hypersensitivity to sulfonamide drugs will exhibit hypersensitivity to DERAMAXX tablets. The safe use of DERMAXX tablets in dogs younger than 4 months of age, dogs used for breeding, or in pregnant or lactating dogs has not been evaluated.

NSAIDs may inhibit the prostaglandins which maintain normal homeostatic function.  Such anti-prostaglandin effects may result in clinically significant disease in patients with underlying or pre-existing disease that has not been previously diagnosed.  Appropriate monitoring procedures should be employed during all surgical procedures.  The use of parenteral fluids during surgery should be considered to decrease potential renal complications when using NSAIDs perioperatively. Concurrent administration of potentially nephrotoxic drugs should be carefully approached.

The use of concomitantly protein-bound drugs with DERAMAXX tablets has not been studied in dogs.  Commonly used protein-bound drugs include cardiac, anticonvulsant and behavioral medications.  The influence of concomitant drugs that may inhibit metabolism of DERAMAXX tablets has not been evaluated.  Drug compatibility should be monitored in patients requiring adjunctive therapy.  Consider appropriate washout times when switching from one NSAID to another or when switching from corticosteroid use to NSAID use.

In a 6-month study, dogs were dosed with DERAMAXX at 0, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 mg/kg with food once daily for 6 consecutive months.  There were no abnormal feces, and no abnormal findings on clinical observations, food and water consumption, body weights, physical examinations, ophthalmoscopic evaluations, macroscopic pathological examinations, hematology, or buccal bleeding time.  Urinalysis results showed hyposthenuria (specific gravity <1.005) and polyuria in one male and one female in the 6 mg/kg group after 6 months of treatment. After 6 months of treatment, the mean BUN values for dogs treated with 6, 8, or 10 mg/kg/day were 30.0, 35.3, and 48.2 mg/dL respectively.  No effects were seen on any other clinical chemistry parameters, including other variables associated with renal physiology (serum creatinine, serum electrolytes, and urine sediment evaluation).  Dose dependent focal renal tubular degeneration/regeneration was seen in some dogs treated at 6, 8, and 10 mg/kg/day.  Focal renal papillary necrosis was seen in 3 dogs dosed at 10 mg/kg/day and in one dog dosed at 8 mg/kg/day.  No renal lesions were seen at the label doses of 2 and 4 mg/kg/day.  There was no evidence of gastrointestinal, hepatic, or hematopoietic pathology at any of the doses tested.

In a laboratory study, healthy young dogs were dosed with deracoxib tablets once daily, within 30 minutes of feeding, at doses of 0, 4, 6, 8, and 10 mg/kg body weight for 21 consecutive days.  No adverse drug events were reported.  There were no abnormal findings reported for clinical observations, food and water consumption, body weights, physical examinations, ophthalmic evaluations, organ weights, macroscopic pathologic evaluation, hematology, urinalyses, or buccal mucosal bleeding time.  In the clinical chemistry results there was a statistically significant (p<0.0009) dose-dependent trend toward increased levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN).  Mean BUN values remained within historical normal limits at the label dose.  No effects on other clinical chemistry values associated with renal function were reported.  There was no evidence of renal, gastrointestinal, hepatic or biliary lesions noted during gross necropsy.  Renal histopathology revealed trace amounts of tubular degeneration/regeneration in all dose groups including placebo, but no clear dose relationship could be determined.  There was no histopathologic evidence of gastrointestinal, hepatic or biliary lesions.

In another study, micronized deracoxib in gelatin capsules was administered once daily to healthy young dogs at doses of 10, 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg body weight for periods up to 14 consecutive days.  Food was withheld prior to dosing. Non-linear elimination kinetics occurred at all doses.  At doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, reduced body weight, vomiting, and melena occurred.  Necropsy revealed gross gastrointestinal lesions in dogs from all dose groups.  The frequency and severity of the lesions increased with escalating doses.  At 10 mg/kg, moderate diffuse congestion of gut associated lymphoid tissues (GALT) and erosions/ulcers in the jejunum occurred. At 100 mg/kg, all dogs exhibited gastric ulcers and erosions/ulcerations of the small intestines. There were no hepatic or renal lesions reported at any dose in this study.

In a 13-week study, deracoxib in gelatin capsules was administered to healthy dogs at doses of 0, 2, 4, and 8 mg/kg/day.  No test-article related changes were identified in clinical observations, physical exams, or any of the other parameters measured. One dog in the 8 mg/kg dose group died from bacterial septicemia secondary to a renal abscess.  The relationship between deracoxib administration and the renal abscess is not clear.

DERAMAXX tablets were evaluated for palatability in 100 client-owned dogs of a variety of breeds and sizes.  Dogs received two doses of DERAMAXX tablets, one on each of two consecutive days.  DERAMAXX tablets were accepted by 94% of dogs on the first day of dosing and by 92% of dogs on the second day of dosing.

DERAMAXX tablets were evaluated in masked, placebo-controlled multi-site field studies involving client-owned animals to determine effectiveness.

Two hundred and nine (209) client-owned dogs with clinical and radiographic signs of osteoarthritis of at least one appendicular joint were enrolled in this study.  A total of 194 dogs were included in the safety evaluation and a total of 181 dogs were included in the effectiveness evaluation.  The effectiveness of DERAMAXX tablets in the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis was demonstrated in a placebo-controlled, masked study evaluating the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of DERAMAXX tablets.  Tablets were administered by the owner at approximately 1-2 mg/kg/day for forty-three (43) consecutive days.

In general, statistically significant (p≤ 0.05) differences in favor of DERAMAXX were seen for force plate parameters (vertical impulse area, peak vertical force) and owner evaluations (quality of life, lameness and overall level of activity).

The results of this field study demonstrate that DERAMAXX tablets, when administered at 1-2 mg/kg/day for 43 days, are effective for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.

DERAMAXX (deracoxib) was well tolerated and the incidence of clinical adverse reactions was comparable in DERAMAXX and placebo-treated animals.  A total of 209 dogs of 41 breeds, 1-14 years old, weighing 17-177 lbs were included in the field safety analysis.  The following table shows the number of dogs displaying each adverse reaction.

¹Dogs may have experienced more than one adverse reaction during the study.

*This dog was less active and eating less on enrollment, with elevated WBC, amylase, and AST and died 1 month after exiting the study.  The dog was withdrawn from the study on Day 17 with anorexia, lethargy and a suspicion of diarrhea. Follow-up laboratory analyses revealed hypoalbuminemia, hyperphosphatemia, elevated AST and decreased BUN.  Follow-up treatment included other anti-inflammatories and antibiotics.

Complete blood count, serum chemistry, and buccal bleeding time analysis were conducted at the beginning and end of the trial.  Mean values of all CBC and chemistry results for both DERAMAXX and placebo-treated dogs were within normal limits.  There was no statistically significant difference in the buccal bleeding time between DERAMAXX and placebo-treated dogs before or after the study, and all results remained within normal limits (less than 5 minutes).  The results of this field study demonstrate that DERAMAXX is safe and effective for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs.

During this trial, dogs were safely treated with a variety of commonly used medications, including antibiotics, anti-parasiticides, topical flea adulticides and thyroid supplements.

The results of this field study demonstrate that DERAMAXX tablets are well tolerated when administered at 1-2 mg/kg/day for up to 43 days for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.

In this study, 207 dogs admitted to veterinary hospitals for repair of a cranial cruciate injury were randomly administered DERAMAXX tablets or a placebo.  Drug administration started the evening before surgery and continued once daily for 6 days postoperatively.  Effectiveness was evaluated in 119 dogs and safety was evaluated in 207 dogs.  Statistically significant differences in favor of DERAMAXX tablets were found for lameness at walk and trot, and pain on palpation values at all post-surgical time points.  The results of this field study demonstrate that DERAMAXX tablets, when administered daily for 7 days are effective for the control of postoperative pain and inflammation associated with orthopedic surgery.

A total of 207 dogs of forty-three (43) different breeds, 1-15 years old, weighing 7-141 lbs were included in the field safety analysis.  The following table shows the number of dogs displaying each adverse reaction.

¹Dogs may have experienced more than one adverse reaction during the study.

This table does not include one dog that was dosed at 16.92 mg/kg/day for the study duration.  Beginning on the last day of treatment, this dog experienced vomiting, diarrhea, increased water intake and decreased appetite.  Hematology and clinical chemistry values were unremarkable.  The dog recovered uneventfully within 3 days of cessation of dosing.

Incisional drainage was most prevalent in dogs enrolled at a single study site.  There were no statistically significant changes in the mean values for hepatic or renal clinical pathology indices between DERAMAXX tablet- and placebo-treated dogs.  Four DERAMAXX tablet-treated dogs and two placebo-treated dogs exhibited elevated bilirubin during the dosing phase.  One DERAMAXX tablet-treated dog exhibited elevated ALT, BUN and total bilirubin and a single vomiting event.  None of the changes in clinical pathology values were considered clinically significant.

The results of this clinical study demonstrate that DERAMAXX tablets, when administered daily for 7 days to control postoperative orthopedic pain and inflammation in dogs, are well tolerated.

In this study, 62 dogs admitted to veterinary hospitals for dental extractions were randomly administered DERAMAXX tablets or a placebo. Drug administration started approximately 1 hour before surgery and continued once daily for 2 days postoperatively. Effectiveness was evaluated in 57 dogs and safety was evaluated in 62 dogs. There was a statistically significant reduction (p=0.0338) in the proportion of dogs that required rescue therapy to control post-surgical pain in the DERAMAXX treated group compared to the placebo control group. Pain assessors used a modification of the Glasgow Composite Pain Scale (mGCPS) to assess pain.⁷ A dog was rescued if it scored ≥ 4 on the combined mGCPS variables of Posture/Activity, Demeanor, Response to Touch, and Vocalization, or if the investigator determined at any time that pain intervention was needed. The results of this field study demonstrate that DERAMAXX, when administered once daily for 3 days, is effective for the control of postoperative pain and inflammation associated with dental surgery.

A total of 62 male and female dogs of various breeds, 1.5-16 years old, were included in the field safety analysis. The following table shows the number of dogs displaying each adverse reaction. Digestive tract disorders (diarrhea and vomiting) and systemic disorders (abnormal clinical chemistry results) were the most frequently reported findings. There were no distinct breed, age, or sex predilections for adverse reactions that were reported. No dogs were withdrawn from the study due to the occurrence of an adverse reaction.

¹Dogs may have experienced more than one adverse reaction during the study.
²Included animals with results over 2x the high normal.

The following adverse events are based on post-approval adverse drug experience reporting. Not all adverse reactions are reported to FDA CVM. It is not always possible to reliably estimate the adverse event frequency or establish a causal relationship to product exposure using this data. The following adverse events are grouped by body system and are presented in decreasing order of reporting frequency.

Gastrointestinal: vomiting, diarrhea, hypoalbuminemia, melena, hematochezia, elevated amylase/lipase, hematemesis, abdominal pain, peritonitis, decreased or increased total protein and globulin, gastrointestinal perforation, gastrointestinal ulceration, hypersalivation.

General: anorexia, depression/lethargy, weight loss, weakness, fever, dehydration

Hepatic: elevated liver enzymes, hyperbilirubinemia, icterus, ascites, decreased BUN

Hematologic: anemia, leukocytosis, leukocytopenia, thrombocytopenia

Neurologic: seizures, ataxia, recumbency, trembling, confusion, collapse, hind limb paresis, nystagmus, proprioceptive disorder, vestibular signs

Behavioral: nervousness, hyperactivity, aggression, apprehension

Urologic: elevated BUN/creatinine, polydipsia, polyuria, hyper-phosphatemia, hematuria, low urine specific gravity, urinary incontinence, renal failure, urinary tract infection

Dermatologic: pruritis, erythema, urticaria, moist dermatitis, facial/muzzle edema, dermal ulceration/necrosis

Respiratory: panting, dyspnea, epistaxis, coughing

Cardiovascular: tachycardia, heart murmur, bradycardia, arrest

Sensory: Vestibular signs, glazed eyes, uveitis.

Ophthalmic: blindness, mydriasis, conjunctivitis, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, uveitis

In some cases, death has been reported as an outcome of the adverse events listed above.

To report suspected adverse drug events, contact Novartis Animal Health at 1-800-637-0281 or the FDA at 1-888-FDA-VETS or http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/SafetyHealth/ ReportaProblem/ucm055305.htm

For a complete listing of adverse reactions for deracoxib reported to the CVM see: http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/SafetyHealth/ProductSafetyInformation/ucm055394.htm

For technical assistance, call Novartis Animal Health at 1-800-637-0281.

Chewable Tablets

DERAMAXX, like other drugs of its class, is not free from adverse reactions. Owners should be advised of the potential for adverse reactions and be informed of the clinical signs associated with drug intolerance. Adverse reactions may include vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, dark or tarry stools, increase water consumption, increased urination, anemia, yellowing of gums, skin or white of the eye due to jaundice, lethargy, incoordination, seizure, or behavioral changes. Serious adverse reactions associated with this drug class can occur without warning and in some cases result in death (see Warnings, Post-Approval Experience and Adverse Reactions). Owners should be advised to discontinue DERAMAXX therapy and contact their veterinarian immediately if signs of intolerance are observed. The vast majority of patients with drug related adverse reactions have recovered when the signs are recognized, the drug is withdrawn, and veterinary care, if appropriate, is initiated. Owners should be advised of the importance of periodic follow up for all dogs during administration of any NSAID.

DERAMAXX tablets should be stored at room temperature between 59° and 86°F

(15-30°C).

Keep this and all medications out of reach of children.

DERAMAXX tablets are available as 12 mg, 25 mg, 50mg, 75 mg and 100 mg round, brownish, half-scored tablets in 7, 30, and 90 count bottles.

Manufactured for: Novartis Animal Health US, Inc.

Greensboro, NC 27408 USA

References:

• Data on File
  
• Data on File
  
• Smith, et al.: “Pharmacological Analysis of Cyclo-oxygenase -1 in Inflammation,” Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA (October 1998) 95: 13313-13318, Pharmacology.
  
• Zhang, et al.: “Inhibition of Cyclo-oxygenase -2 Rapidly Reverses Inflammatory Hyperalgesia and Prostaglandin E2 Production,” JPET, (1997) 283: 1069-1075.
  
• Verburg, KM et al. “Cox-2 Specific Inhibitors: Definition of a New Therapeutic Concept.” Amer J of Therapeutics 8, 49-64, 2001.
  
• Data on File
  
• Holton, L., Reid, J., Scott, E.M., Pawson, P. and Nolan, A. (2001). Development of a behaviour-based scale to measure acute pain in dogs. Veterinary Record, 148, 525-53.

NADA # 141-203, Approved by FDA
© 2011 Novartis Animal Health US, Inc.
NAH/DXB-T/PI/12
09/11

Deramaxx   ( d eracoxib ) Chewable Tablets
For Oral Use In Dogs Only
Do Not Use in Cats

DERAMAXX Chewable Tablets are for the control of pain and inflammation due to osteoarthritis or following orthopedic and dental surgery.

This summary contains important information about DERAMAXX tablets.  You should read this information before starting your dog on DERAMAXX tablets.  This sheet is provided only as a summary and does not take the place of instructions from your veterinarian.  Talk to your veterinarian if you do not understand any of this information or you want to know more about DERAMAXX tablets.

What is DERAMAXX?

DERAMAXX tablets are a prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) of the coxib class.  They are indicated for the control of postoperative pain and inflammation associated with orthopedic (bone) and dental surgery in dogs and for the control of pain and inflammation (soreness) associated with osteoarthritis in dogs.  The tablets are flavored to make administration more convenient.

What kind of results can I expect when my dog takes DERAMAXX tablets for postoperative orthopedic and dental pain and inflammation?

DERAMAXX tablets allow your dog to recover more comfortably by controlling pain and inflammation that follow orthopedic and dental surgery.

• The postoperative orthopedic pain dose is a higher dose; administration at this dose should not exceed 7 days total, including the days the patient is administered DERAMAXX while in the hospital.
  
• Control of pain and inflammation may vary from dog to dog.
  
• If DERAMAXX tablets are not given according to your veterinarian's directions, your dog's pain may return.
  
• Consult your veterinarian if your dog appears to be uncomfortable.

What kind of results can I expect when my dog takes DERAMAXX tablets for pain and inflammation due to osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a painful condition caused by damage to cartilage and other parts of the joint that may result in the following changes or signs in your dog:

• Limping or lameness
  
• Decreased activity or exercise (reluctance to stand, climb stairs, jump or run, or difficulty in performing these activities)
  
• Stiffness or decreased movement of joints

While DERAMAXX is not a cure for osteoarthritis, it can control the pain and inflammation of osteoarthritis and improve your dog's mobility.  Response may vary from dog to dog but can be quite dramatic.  DERAMAXX tablets may need to be given on a periodic basis for the animal's lifetime.   Use the lowest dose to provide adequate relief.   Always consult with your veterinarian before altering the dose.

What dogs should not take DERAMAXX tablets?

Your dog should not be given DERAMAXX tablets if s/he:

• Has had an allergic reaction to deracoxib, the active ingredient in DERAMAXX tablets
  
• Has had an allergic reaction (such as hives, facial swelling, or red or itchy skin) to aspirin or other NSAIDs
  
• Is presently taking aspirin, other NSAIDs, or corticosteroids (unless directed by your veterinarian)
  
• Has bloody stool or vomit
  
• Has a pre-existing kidney or liver condition
  
• Has any condition predisposing to dehydration
  
• Is anorexic (loss of appetite)

DERAMAXX tablets should only be given to dogs.    Do not use in cats.

People should not take DERAMAXX tablets.  Keep DERAMAXX tablets and all medication out of reach of children.  Call your physician immediately if you accidentally take DERAMAXX tablets.

What to discuss with your veterinarian before giving DERAMAXX tablets?

Tell your veterinarian about:

• Any side effects your dog has experienced from DERAMAXX tablets or other NSAIDs
  
• Any digestive upset (vomiting or diarrhea) your dog has had
  
• Any kidney disease your dog has had
  
• Any other medical problems or allergies that your dog has now or has had in the past
  
• All medications that you are giving your dog or plan to give your dog, including those you can get without prescription and any dietary supplements
  
• If you plan to breed your dog, or if your dog is pregnant or nursing

Talk to your veterinarian about:

• The orthopedic or dental surgery your dog will undergo
  
• What tests might be done before surgery is performed or DERAMAXX tablets are prescribed
  
• The signs of pain or inflammation that may occur after surgery
  
• Normal events that can be expected after your dog undergoes surgery
  
• The proper amount of exercise after surgery to aid recovery
  
• The signs of osteoarthritis you have observed (for example, limping or stiffness)
  
• The importance of weight control, physical therapy and exercise in the management of osteoarthritis
  
• How often your dog may need to be examined by your veterinarian
  
• The risks and benefits of using DERAMAXX tablets

How to give DERAMAXX tablets to your dog.

DERAMAXX tablets should be given according to your veterinarian's instructions.  Your veterinarian will tell you what amount of DERAMAXX tablets is right for your dog and for how long they should be given.  Do not change the way you give DERAMAXX tablets to your dog without first speaking with your veterinarian.  DERAMAXX tablets should be given by mouth and may be given with or without food, although with food is preferable.

What are the possible side effects that may occur in my dog during therapy with DERAMAXX tablets?

DERAMAXX tablets may cause some side effects in individual dogs. Serious side effects associated with this drug can occur with or without warning and, in some cases, result in death. The most common side effects associated with DERAMAXX therapy involve the digestive tract (vomiting, decreased appetite and diarrhea). Liver and kidney problems have also been reported.  It is important to stop the medication and contact your veterinarian immediately if you think your dog may have a medical problem or side effect while on DERAMAXX tablets.  If you have additional questions about possible side effects, talk with your veterinarian or call Novartis Animal Health 1-800-637-0281.

Look for the following side effects that may indicate that your dog is having a problem with DERAMAXX tablets or may have another medical problem:

• Vomiting
  
• Decrease in appetite
  
• Change in behavior, such as depression, restlessness, aggression or apprehension
  
• Change in bowel movements such as diarrhea or change in stool color (black, tarry or bloody stool)
  
• Change in drinking or urination
  
• Yellowing of gums, skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice)

Can DERAMAXX tablets be given with other medications?

DERAMAXX tablets should not be given with other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids (for example, aspirin, carprofen, etodolac, prednisone).

Tell your veterinarian about all medications that you have given your dog in the past, and any medications that you are planning to give with DERAMAXX tablets.  This should include any medications that you can get without a prescription and any dietary supplements.  Your veterinarian may want to evaluate the potential for any drug interactions and to assure drug compatability.

What can I do in case my dog eats more than the prescribed amount of DERAMAXX tablets?

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog eats more than the prescribed amount of DERAMAXX tablets.

What else should I know about DERAMAXX tablets?

This sheet provides a summary of information about DERAMAXX tablets.  If you have any questions or concerns about DERAMAXX tablets, postoperative orthopedic and dental pain and inflammation, or osteoarthritis, talk to your veterinarian.

As with all prescribed medications, DERAMAXX tablets should only be given to the dog for which they are prescribed.  They should be given to your dog only for the condition for which they were prescribed, at the prescribed dose, as directed by your veterinarian.  It is important to periodically discuss your dog's response to DERAMAXX tablets at regular checkups.  Your veterinarian will best determine if your dog is responding as expected and if your dog should continue receiving DERAMAXX tablets.

NADA 141-203, Approved by FDA

© 2011 Novartis Animal Health US, Inc.

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL
Deramaxx ^®  (deracoxib)
12 mg Chewable Tablets
For Oral Use in Dogs Only
Do Not Use in Cats
A coxib-class NSAID
NOVARTIS ANIMAL HEALTH
7 tablets

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL
Deramaxx ^®  (deracoxib)
25 mg Chewable Tablets
For Oral Use in Dogs Only
Do Not Use in Cats
A coxib-class NSAID
NOVARTIS ANIMAL HEALTH
7 tablets

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL
Deramaxx ^®  (deracoxib)
75 mg Chewable Tablets
For Oral Use in Dogs Only
Do Not Use in Cats
A coxib-class NSAID
NOVARTIS ANIMAL HEALTH
7 tablets

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL
Deramaxx ^®  (deracoxib)
100 mg Chewable Tablets
For Oral Use in Dogs Only
Do Not Use in Cats
A coxib-class NSAID
NOVARTIS ANIMAL HEALTH
7 tablets