Frequently Asked Questions about Novox
What is Novox and how does it work?
Novox a is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for dogs that's used to treat pain and inflammation caused by arthritis and other degenerative joint diseases. This drug in Novox, carprofen, inhibits the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that trigger inflammation. Novox is also used to relieve pain after some surgical procedures.
There is no cure for arthritis, but Novox has been shown to be effective in controlling arthritis pain and inflammation to help your pet maintain mobility and their quality of life.
This product is a generic alternative to Rimadyl.
Why would my dog need Novox?
Your vet may prescribe Novox or carprofen in general if your dog is in pain from arthritis, hip dysplasia, or other joint disorders. Novox allows you to control your pet's pain on a day-to-day basis.
What else should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Novox?
If your veterinarian recommends Novox, talk to them about what other types of tests and exams may be required while your pet is on the medication. Also, be sure to discuss how long the treatment will last and what kind of outcome your veterinarian expects. You may want to discuss what lifestyle changes you can make to help ease your dog's joint pain in addition to the use of Novox.
What dosage does my dog need?
It all depends on your veterinarian's instructions and your dog's weight. The recommended dosage for dogs is 2 mg per 1 lb of bodyweight (4.4 mg/kg) once a day. Doses may also be divided in half and administered twice daily instead of all at once.
What are some of the side effects my dog may experience?
Like other pain relievers, Novox may cause side effects. The most common adverse reaction is stomach upset, but ulcers may develop. Stop administering Novox and contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog has bloody, black, or tarry stools, or blood in their vomit. Side effects involving the kidneys include increased thirst and urination, or changes in the color or smell of your dog's urine. Other adverse reactions may include pale gums due to anemia, yellowing of gums, skin, or white of the eye due to jaundice, lethargy, incoordination, seizure, or behavioral changes. Seek immediate veterinary care and cease administering Novox if you notice any of these signs.
Signs that your dog may be experiencing an allergic reaction to Novox Caplets include: facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden diarrhea or vomiting, shock, seizures, cold limbs, pale gums, or coma. If you see any of these signs, seek immediate veterinary care.
What should I do if a side effect occurs?
Cease administering Novox and seek immediate veterinary care.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it to your dog as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your pet's next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to their regular schedule. Do not double up and give two doses at once.
Do I need a prescription?
Yes. Novox is a prescription pain reliever for dogs.
If I have a prescription for Rimadyl, can Novox be substituted without a new one?
It depends on how the prescription was written and if the veterinarian wrote "dispense as written" or not.
What forms does this medication come in?
Novox is available as scored caplets in 25 mg, 75 mg, and 100 mg strengths in quantities of 30, 60, and 180.
Is there a generic form available?
Novox is the generic version of Rimadyl. There are other generic carprofen products available besides Novox. These include: Vetprofen Caplets and Carprofen Caplets
Is the brand name safer than Novox or the other generics?
Chemically, generics like Novox, Vetprofen, and Carprofen are exactly the same as Rimadyl. They all have the same potential side effects.
Why can't I just give my dog ibuprofen for pain?
Novox is in the same class of pain reliever as ibuprofen, but ibuprofen is not safe for dogs. Novox is FDA-approved for veterinary use.
What results can I expect?
Carprofen or any other NSAID won't cure arthritis or hip dysplasia in dogs. However, Novox can reduce pain and inflammation. Results will vary on a case by case basis, but many dogs see beneficial effects within hours. Anti-inflammatory usually benefits take several days before they take effect. If you discontinue, your dog's symptoms may return.
Some dogs may also benefit from taking a joint support supplement like Flexadin Plus, Glyco-Flex, or Dasquin in addition to prescription pain medications.
Are there any drugs that will interact poorly with this one?
Before giving your dog Novox, talk to your veterinarian about this, especially if your pet is taking other vitamins, supplements, aspirin, other NSAIDs like etodolac, over-the-counter cough, cold, or allergy medications, steroids like prednisone, diuretics like furosemide, anticoagulants, enalapril, Proin or other urinary incontinence medications, sulfa drugs, or certain oral antidiabetic medications.
Can I use this product off and on depending on my dog's level of pain?
Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate dosing levels for your dog.
Can Novox be used with other pain medications?
That is up to your veterinarian's discretion. They may consider giving your dog Tramadol alongside Novox if your pet is in severe pain. However, do not give your pet a new medication without first consulting your vet.
What other NSAIDs are there if I don't want to give my dog carprofen?
Other brands of NSAIDs for dogs include: Deramaxx (deracoxib), Previcox (firocoxib), Metacam (meloxicam), and EtoGesic (etodolac). Your veterinarian can determine which one may fit your pet's needs best. Do you not give your dogtwo NSAIDs at once, and do not switch their medications without prior veterinary approval.
Can I give Novox and a joint supplement to my dog?
Yes. Products like Dasuquin, Glyco-Flex, Flexadin Plus, etc. are joint supplements and are made without drugs. They are formulated to help protect and restore cartilage, while Novox is used to treat pain and inflammation.
What's the difference between Novox (carprofen) and ibuprofen?
Carprofen is similar to ibuprofen, but products like Advil or Motrin are for human use. They can be dangerous if given to dogs. Products like Novox, Rimadyl, and Vetprofen are approved for use in dogs.
Will my dog possibly need blood tests while they're on this medication? Why?
Novox is metabolized by the liver and excreted in your pet's kidneys. As such, your veterinarian will want to do blood tests that measure liver and kidney function to make sure they are working properly while your pet is on this medication.
What should I do if my dog vomits after I give them Novox?
If vomiting occurs, stop administering the medication and contact your veterinarian right away.
Can cats take Novox too?
No. Novox is not indicated for cats. There are other NSAIDs available for feline use like Onsior (robenacoxib).
My vet recommended my dog take Denamarin with Novox. Why?
Denamarin is a supplement that contains S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) and silybin that may support your dog's liver function. Because carprofen is metabolized by the liver, your veterinarian is probably just trying to make sure your dog gets a little extra support to maintain their liver health. However, consult your veterinarian before starting your pet on any new medications or supplements.
What is the cost per caplet?
Prices are subject to change.
| Product |
Cost Per Pill |
| 100mg 180 Caplets |
$.58 |
| 100mg 30 Caplets |
$.77 |
| 100mg 60 Caplets |
$.54 |
| 25mg 180 Caplets |
$.36 |
| 25mg 30 Caplets |
$.57 |
| 25mg 60 Caplets |
$.44 |
| 75mg 180 Caplets |
$.47 |
| 75mg 30 Caplets |
$.64 |
| 75mg 60 Caplets |
$.55 |