Switching NSAIDs in practice: insights from the Previcox (firocoxib) Experience Trial.

Veterinarians currently have a choice of six registered NSAIDs for use in the management of canine osteoarthritis. There is a need for data to clarify whether there is an increased risk of side effects occurring in the event of a switch between different members of the NSAID class. In this retrospective analysis of extensive data collected in the 1,000 dog Previcox (firocoxib, Merial) Experience Trial, the incidence of side effects in dogs reported as treated with an NSAID 7 days or less before enrollment was compared with that in dogs reported as not having received an NSAID in the equivalent period. Statistical analysis of the data indicates that observation of an interval of up to 1 week between beginning treatment with firocoxib and cessation of treatment with a different NSAID was not associated with any increased risk of adverse events.