How DERAMAXX® (deracoxib) Works to Control Pain.

DERAMAXX is a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Nonsteroidals are medicines that control the clinical signs of inflammation, including pain, redness, warmth and swelling. Common examples of NSAIDs that people use are aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen (the active ingredients in many over-the-counter pain relievers).
 

Some NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, relieve pain and reduce inflammation by blocking the actions of both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes. The COX-1 enzyme makes prostaglandins, chemicals necessary for many normal body functions, such as blood clotting, protection of the stomach lining and kidney function. COX-2 also makes prostaglandins, but most of these trigger inflammation and contribute to pain in arthritic joints. See Figure 1.

DERAMAXX is different from other NSAIDs because at recommended doses it blocks the COX-2 enzyme and not the COX-1 enzyme. The ability of DERAMAXX to select for COX-2 has been demonstrated scientifically in laboratory (in vitro) studies with cloned canine COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes.
 

Evaluation for pre-existing conditions and regular monitoring are recommended for pets on any medication, including DERAMAXX. Use with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids should be avoided or closely monitored.