An NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug), Trocoxil has been available in Europe since 2009 but has only recently been approved for use in Australia. Unlike other NSAIDs such as Rimadyl, Trocoxil does not need to be given daily to control pain but is administered as a single chewable tablet once a month. Although we have yet to see the product, a monthly rather than a daily dose holds the promise of reducing or avoiding the nasty stomach upsets basic COX inhibitors can cause in dogs who need regular or permanent pain relief medications. Giving a single tablet once a month would certainly make life easier for dog owners.

The active substance in Trocoxil, mavacoxib, works by blocking an enzyme called cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX-2), which is involved in producing substances called prostaglandins, which are involved in pain and inflammation. By blocking the production of prostaglandins Trocoxil reduces the pain and inflammation caused by damage to the joints.

Trocoxil is given at a dose of 2 mg per kilogram body weight, immediately before or with the dog’s main meal. There should be a gap of two weeks between the first and second doses, after which it is given once a month. The dose and duration of treatment will depend on the weight and type of animal and the condition being treated. Trocoxil cannot be used in conjunction with any other NSAID and each treatment cycle should not exceed 6.5 months.

If you have a dog suffering osteoarthritic pain who needs regular medication, please talk to us about whether this new drug may be a suitable alternative. Trocoxil is a veterinary only prescription drug.