Pet Medication 101: Onsior

1. Drug Name:

Robenacoxib

2. Brand Name:

Onsior

3. How Dispensed:

Prescription-only

4. Forms:

5mg, 6mg, 10mg, 20mg, 40 mg tablets

20mg/mL injectable solution

5. Drug Type/Class:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)

6. Uses in Dogs and Cats:

Onsior is used to control pain and inflammation that is associated with surgery and musculoskeletal disorders such as osteoarthritis and fractures.

7. How it Works:

Robenacoxib blocks the enzyme (protein that increases the rate of a chemical reaction) cyclooxygenase (COX-2). Blocking this enzyme decreases the production of prostaglandins that causes the pain and swelling of inflammation and other conditions. Inhibiting COX-2 provides anti-inflammatory, pain relief, and can decrease fever.

8. Side Effects and/or Signs of Overdose:

Gastrointestinal side effects are common and can occur in 10% of dogs and cats. These side effects include vomiting, soft stool to diarrhea, decreased appetite, and blood in the stool. Some pets may have a decrease in energy levels. Elevated liver enzymes are common in dogs on long-term robenacoxib.

Overdosage can cause gastrointestinal upset and adverse effects on the kidney. Gastrointestinal ulceration can occur which can cause perforation (development of a hole) in the stomach or intestine. This can lead to infection and inflammation in the abdomen (peritonitis) or throughout the entire body (sepsis).

9. Drug Interactions:

• Corticosteroids and other NSAIDs increase the risk of gastrointestinal toxicity
• Aminoglycoside antibiotics (such as gentamicin or amikacin) may increase the risk of kidney toxicity
• Furosemide
• Cimetidine
• Insulin may increase the risk of hypoglycemia
• Cyclosporine
• Methotrexate
• Aspirin and clopidogrel increase the risk of bleeding

10. Cautionary Statements:

• NSAIDs should only be used in animals that are otherwise healthy. Do not use in patients who are dehydrated or have impaired heart or kidney function
• Animals should be closely monitored, and clients should be advised of the clinical signs of, side effects of NSAIDs
• Risk factors for side effects include: disease of the liver, gastrointestinal tract, and kidney
• Liver injury may occur with robenacoxib
• Bloodwork is recommended before starting an NSAID and monitoring liver and kidney bloodwork if being used long term
• Contraindicated in pregnant and lactating animals

Read more:

Signs of Pain in Dogs

Signs of Pain in Cats

Arthritis in Dogs

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