# Deracoxib for Animals: Mechanism, Doses by Species & Brands

> Deracoxib was the first coxib-class NSAID approved for dogs. Under the Deramaxx label dogs get 1–2 mg/kg once a day for osteoarthritis, or 3–4 mg/kg once a day for up to 7…

- Source page: https://wevet.in/active-ingredients/deracoxib/
- Type: Active ingredient
- Publisher: WeVet
- Updated: 2026-11-02
- Medically reviewed by: Dr. Ravi Baraiya, B.V.Sc. (2026-11-02)
- Audience: veterinarians and veterinary students

Deracoxib was the first coxib-class NSAID approved for dogs [1]. Under the Deramaxx label dogs get 1–2 mg/kg once a day for osteoarthritis, or 3–4 mg/kg once a day for up to 7 days after surgery [2].

- Class: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID, coxib — COX-2 selective)
- Brands: Deramaxx

## Dose by species

| Species | Use | Dose | Route | How often | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dogs | Osteoarthritis (Label: 0.45–0.91 mg/lb/day (1 to 2 mg/kg/day).) | 1–2 mg/kg [2] | PO | Once daily, as needed | Label |
| Dogs | Post-operative pain | 3–4 mg/kg [2] | PO | Once daily, as needed · Not more than 7 days | Label |

## Uses

- Dogs: pain and inflammation of osteoarthritis, and post-operative pain (Deramaxx label) [2].

## Mechanism of action

NSAIDs reduce prostaglandin production by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes [1]. In canine whole-blood assays deracoxib is 12- to 37-fold selective for COX-2 [1].

## Safety

- For use in dogs only — do not use in cats [2].
- Dogs with known hypersensitivity to deracoxib should not receive it [2].
- Do not try to dose small dogs accurately by breaking larger tablets [2].


## Frequently asked questions

### Can deracoxib be given to cats?

No — the Deramaxx label says it is for dogs only and must not be used in cats [2].

### What is the deracoxib dose for dogs?

1–2 mg/kg once a day for osteoarthritis; 3–4 mg/kg once a day for up to 7 days after surgery [2].

## References

[1] Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs in Animals — Merck Veterinary Manual — S. H. Edwards (updated Sep 2024) (2024). https://www.merckvetmanual.com/pharmacology/inflammation/nonsteroidal-anti-inflammatory-drugs-in-animals
[2] DERAMAXX (deracoxib) chewable tablets — FDA labeling — Animal Drugs @ FDA — US label, Elanco (2026). https://animaldrugsatfda.fda.gov/adafda/app/search/public/document/downloadLabeling/544

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Numbers in [brackets] cite the references above. For veterinary professionals. Information supports — never replaces — clinical judgement; always check the current product label and local regulations.
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