Deramaxx for Dogs: Uses and Possible Side Effects

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By Innovet Pet Team

• Updated on August 12, 2026

Deramaxx for dogs is a prescription medicine that helps manage pain and swelling.

Its main ingredient, deracoxib, is part of a group of drugs known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs.

Veterinarians often prescribe Deramaxx to dogs with osteoarthritis or to help manage pain and swelling after some surgeries. Like other NSAIDs, it can relieve pain well, but it also has some risks that dog owners should know about.

This guide covers what Deramaxx is, how it works, what it’s used for, usual dosages, possible side effects, drug interactions, and how to give it to your dog safely.

What Is Deramaxx for Dogs?

Deramaxx is the brand name for deracoxib, an NSAID approved for dogs. It comes as a chewable tablet that you give by mouth.

Deracoxib works by lowering the amount of substances called prostaglandins, which cause pain and swelling.

It belongs to the coxib group of NSAIDs and mainly targets the COX-2 enzyme, which is linked to inflammation.

Since inflammation is a big part of problems like osteoarthritis and pain after surgery, lowering it can help dogs move better and recover more comfortably.

But Deramaxx isn’t right for every dog. NSAIDs can affect the stomach, kidneys, and liver, so your vet should decide if this medicine is safe for your pet.

How Does Deramaxx Work?

When a dog experiences an injury, inflammation, or joint disease, the body produces prostaglandins that contribute to pain and swelling.

Deracoxib blocks an enzyme called cyclooxygenase, especially COX-2, which lowers the amount of inflammatory prostaglandins. This helps reduce both swelling and pain.

As a result, a dog with sore joints may move more easily, and a dog healing from surgery may have less pain and swelling.

But prostaglandins also help protect the stomach and support normal kidney function. That’s why NSAIDs can sometimes cause side effects and why your vet needs to monitor your dog during treatment.

What Is Deramaxx Used For in Dogs?

Deramaxx is mainly used to control pain and swelling from osteoarthritis and some types of pain after surgery in dogs.

Osteoarthritis is a long-term problem where the cartilage and other parts of a joint slowly break down. This causes swelling, stiffness, limping, and pain. NSAIDs are one of the most reliable ways to treat pain from osteoarthritis in dogs.

Vets may also give Deramaxx after orthopedic surgery to help control pain and swelling while your dog recovers.

The FDA lists deracoxib among the NSAIDs approved for dogs for controlling pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and after surgery.

Which Dogs Need Deramaxx?

Deramaxx might be given to dogs with painful swelling, but the choice depends on each dog’s health and specific situation.

Dogs with osteoarthritis

Dogs with osteoarthritis might get stiff, limp, have trouble with stairs, not want to exercise, or have a hard time getting up. Deramaxx can help manage the pain and swelling from this condition.

Since osteoarthritis is usually long-term, some dogs may need ongoing pain relief under their vet’s guidance.

Dogs recovering from surgery

Deramaxx can also help control pain and swelling after surgery, especially after orthopedic procedures.

The dose for pain after surgery is different from the lower dose usually given for long-term osteoarthritis pain, so always follow your vet’s exact instructions.

Dogs with other health conditions

Not every dog is a good candidate for Deramaxx. Dogs with existing kidney, liver, stomach, or intestinal problems may have a greater risk of complications from NSAIDs.

Your veterinarian may recommend an examination and laboratory testing before or during treatment, particularly when a dog needs ongoing NSAID therapy.

Deramaxx Dosage For Dogs

Only use Deramaxx (deracoxib) if your veterinarian prescribes it. They will decide the right dose for your dog based on their weight, health, medical history, and the reason for treatment.

If your dog shows any unusual symptoms or side effects while taking Deramaxx, call your veterinarian right away.

The right dosage depends on what your dog is being treated for. For osteoarthritis, most dogs get 1–2 mg per kg (0.45–0.91 mg per lb) once a day. Vets usually try to use the lowest dose that still helps with pain and inflammation.

Dog’s weight	Approximate weight in lb	Typical daily dose range*
5 kg	11 lb	5–10 mg
10 kg	22 lb	10–20 mg
15 kg	33 lb	15–30 mg
20 kg	44 lb	20–40 mg
25 kg	55 lb	25–50 mg
30 kg	66 lb	30–60 mg
40 kg	88 lb	40–80 mg
50 kg	110 lb	50–100 mg

Deramaxx chewable tablets come in 7 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, 75 mg, and 100 mg strengths. This helps your vet pick a dose that fits your dog’s weight.

The tablets are flavored, which can make them easier to give to your dog.

You can give Deramaxx with or without food, but giving it with food might help prevent stomach upset. Always follow your vet’s instructions on how and when to give the medication.

Store Deramaxx at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Never give your dog more than the amount your vet prescribed, even if they seem to be in more pain.

How to Give Deramaxx to Dogs

Deramaxx is given by mouth, and the chewable tablets often make it easier for dogs to take.

Give Deramaxx exactly as your vet tells you. If you miss a dose, don’t give an extra one without checking the instructions or calling your vet clinic first.

Do not give Deramaxx with another NSAID or corticosteroid unless your vet says it’s okay. Using them together can raise the risk of serious side effects.

What Are the Side Effects of Deramaxx?

Deramaxx can help relieve pain and inflammation in dogs, but it can also cause side effects that may affect the digestive system, kidneys, or liver, such as:

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Decreased appetite
Changes in drinking or urination
Lethargy

Some dogs can have an allergic reaction to Deramaxx. Watch for these signs:

Facial swelling
Red or itchy skin
Hives
Difficulty breathing

Contact your veterinarian right away if your dog has any signs of an allergic reaction or any unusual symptoms.

What Should You Do If Your Dog Has Side Effects?

Side effects can be mild or serious, and each dog reacts differently. If you see a worrying reaction after giving Deramaxx, stop the medication and call your vet before giving another dose.

Your vet will decide if your dog should keep taking Deramaxx, change the dose, or try a different medication, based on your dog’s health and history.

Like any prescription, you and your vet should weigh the benefits and risks before starting Deramaxx. Dogs on it long-term may need regular checkups.

When Should Dogs Not Take Deramaxx?

Deramaxx isn’t right for every dog. Make sure your vet knows your dog’s full medical history before they prescribe it.

Extra caution may be needed in dogs with:

Kidney disease
Liver disease
Stomach or intestinal disease
Dehydration
A history of gastrointestinal ulcers
Problems affecting blood clotting
Previous reactions to NSAIDs

NSAIDs can affect the kidneys, liver, and digestive system. That’s why vets look at your dog’s overall health before prescribing them.

If your dog is on other medications, your vet should check for possible interactions.

Deramaxx Drug Interactions

Deramaxx should not be combined with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids unless your veterinarian specifically tells you to do so.

Other medicines and supplements can affect whether Deramaxx is safe for your dog. Always tell your vet about everything your dog takes, including prescriptions, over-the-counter products, and supplements.

If your dog needs to switch from one NSAID to another, your vet may suggest waiting a certain amount of time before starting the new medicine.

Never switch your dog’s medication on your own.

Natural Ways to Support a Dog Taking Deramaxx

Natural methods can’t replace Deramaxx or your vet’s care if your dog has a lot of pain or inflammation. Still, some supportive steps may help dogs with osteoarthritis feel more comfortable along with their prescribed treatment.

1. Healthy weight

Keeping your dog at a healthy weight can take stress off sore joints. If your dog is overweight, your vet can help you make a weight-management plan.

2. Gentle exercise

Regular, gentle activity helps keep your dog’s muscles strong and joints moving. Dogs with joint pain often do better with short, easy walks instead of hard exercise.

3. Comfortable rest

A soft bed and a warm, cozy spot to rest can help dogs with stiff or sore joints relax.

4. CBD

Some owners think about adding CBD products to their dog’s wellness routine. But CBD doesn’t replace Deramaxx or treat the root cause of osteoarthritis, and it can interact with other medicines.

Always talk to your vet before giving your dog CBD if they are taking Deramaxx or any other prescription medicine.

Innovet CBD Can Support Your Dog’s Wellness

Innovet’s CBD products don’t replace Deramaxx or your vet’s care. But with your vet’s okay, CBD might be added to your dog’s wellness routine if they have discomfort or trouble moving.

Here are some options you may consider:

CBD Oil for Dogs: CBD oil is an easy way to add CBD to your dog’s daily routine. It may help your dog relax and feel more comfortable when used as part of a vet-approved plan.
CBD Soft Chews and Treats: If your dog doesn’t like oil, CBD soft chews are another easy option. You can give them as treats to add CBD to your dog’s routine.
CBD Paw Balm: This balm can help keep your dog’s paw pads soft and healthy, but it doesn’t treat joint pain or replace medicines like Deramaxx.

⚠️ Always check with your vet before giving your dog CBD or any other supplement while they’re on Deramaxx. Your vet can help you decide if it’s safe and if there could be any interactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Deramaxx used for in dogs?

Deramaxx helps control pain and inflammation from osteoarthritis and some types of pain after surgery in dogs.

How long does Deramaxx take to work?

How quickly Deramaxx works can vary from dog to dog. Your vet can tell you what to expect based on your dog’s condition and treatment plan.

Can Deramaxx be given with other pain medications?

Do not combine Deramaxx with another NSAID or corticosteroid unless your veterinarian specifically instructs you to do so.

Can Deramaxx cause stomach problems in dogs?

Yes. Vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite are some side effects of NSAIDs. More serious stomach problems, like ulcers or holes, can also happen.

Can dogs take Deramaxx long term?

Some dogs with long-term osteoarthritis may need NSAIDs for a while, but using them long-term means your vet should supervise and monitor your dog regularly.

Approved by:

Dr. Ivana Vukasinovic

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade

Ivana Vukasinovic grew up in Serbia and attended the University of Belgrade where she received a degree in Veterinary medicine in 2012 and later completed surgical residency working mostly with livestock. Her first year of practice was split between busy small animal practice and emergency clinic, and after two more years of treating many different species of animals, she opened her own veterinary pharmacy where an interest in canine and feline nutrition emerged with an accent on fighting animal obesity. In her free time, she acts as a foster parent for stray animals before their adoption, likes to read SF books and making salted caramel cookies.

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The Innovet Team

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