Generic Drug Name: Robenacoxib
Other Common Names: Onsior
Related Information
Robenacoxib is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that belongs to the coxib class of medications. It works by suppressing COX-2, the enzyme responsible for producing the inflammatory biochemicals that cause the inflammation and pain associated with many conditions and disorders.
Robenacoxib is approved for three consecutive days of use in cats to relieve pain associated with orthopedic and soft tissue surgery. Although this medication is for use in cats, it may be available in some countries in tablets for dogs.
Robenacoxib is known to cause a variety of side effects in animals, some of which are serious. The biggest concerns associated with use of any non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug include excessive bleeding, stomach ulceration, and reduced kidney function.
Robenacoxib is not for use in animals with borderline kidney function or in dehydrated animals. This is because the drug reduces blood flow through the kidneys. Animals suffering from liver failure should also avoid using this medication.
There may be increased risk of ventricular arrhythmia in cats with cardiac disease that take robenacoxib. The drug has been shown to prolong the QT interval during some laboratory tests. It should not be taken with other drugs that prolong the QT interval.
It is not known if robenacoxib is safe for use in pregnant or nursing animals. Therefore, it should only be used in these groups if no other options are available. Cats weighting less than 5.5 pounds should not use the drug. Animals with pre-existing gastrointestinal ulcerations should also not use robenacoxib.
Robenacoxib may interact with a number of other medications and supplements, including dexamethasone, prednisone, and other corticosteroid drugs. Robenacoxib is also known to interact with ACE inhibitors, fluconazole, and drugs that are hard on or may damage the kidneys. Additionally, the drug should not be used along with other protein-bound drugs.
Robenacoxib should not be used in animals with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to the drug. Any known or suspected overdose should be reported to a veterinarian right away.
Robenacoxib should be stored at room temperature, away from children and animals. It should not be used beyond its expiration date.
Robenacoxib is available as 6 mg tablets. Typically, the dose for robenacoxib is 1 mg/kg body weight. Cats weighing 5.5 to 13.3 pounds should take one 6 mg tablet daily. Cats weighing 13.3 to 26.4 pounds should take two 6 mg tablets daily.
Robenacoxib should be used once daily for no more than three consecutive days. Ideally, the drug should be used on an empty stomach. The tablets should not be crushed or broken into pieces.
Doses may vary in different species, when the drug is given by a different route or concurrently with other medications, and with regards to a patient's age, breed, and health status. A veterinarian's dosing instructions and/or those printed on the medication label should be followed closely.
If a dose of robenacoxib is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped and a normal schedule resumed. Two doses of this drug should not be taken at once.
United States law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. A pet's veterinarian should be contacted with any questions about the administration of or response to any medication.