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Cimalgex

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Cimalgex for dogs

Formulation

Tablets

Active ingredient

Cimicoxib

Category

Pain relief / anti-inflammatory

What is Cimalgex?

Cimalgex is a trade name of the active ingredient cimicoxib, which is manufactured by Vetoquinol. It is a type of anti-inflammatory called a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Cimalgex is a pork liver-flavoured chewable tablet that is mainly used to treat the pain associated with arthritis, but is also used in other painful conditions. Rather than just blocking the signs of pain, Cimalgex also reduces inflammation, thereby treating the cause of the pain too.

Table of Contents

What does Cimalgex do?

Cimalgex, with the active ingredient cimicoxib, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) designed to alleviate pain and inflammation in dogs.

Cimalgex works by stopping enzymes known as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), which are involved in the production of inflammatory substances, from working. This stops inflammation.

By reducing inflammation, Cimalgex also helps manage pain associated with conditions like osteoarthritis.

What is Cimalgex used for?

Cimalgex is a pain relief and anti-inflammatory for dogs commonly used for:

  • Osteoarthritis relief: Cimalgex is primarily prescribed to dogs with arthritis to improve mobility by reducing pain and inflammation in the joints.
  • Trauma: It is used for the short-term or long-term management of pain associated with various traumatic conditions and injuries, from sprains to grass seeds.
  • Peri- and post-operative pain: In some cases, Cimalgex may be used during and following surgery to manage pain.

Always follow the veterinarian’s recommendations for the correct dosage based on your dog’s specific needs. Regular veterinary check-ups are important to monitor your dog’s response to Cimalgex and make any necessary adjustments. If you notice any unusual or persistent symptoms in your dog, contact your veterinarian for guidance.

What are the side effects of Cimalgex in dogs?

Like all medicines, Cimalgex has side effects, and will only be prescribed when the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. From the datasheet, and our experience as vets, the side effects of Cimalgex include:

  • Gastrointestinal upset: Some dogs may experience gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting or diarrhoea. This is often temporary and may improve with continued use. Rarely, the gastrointestinal side effects are more severe, and you may notice blood in your dog’s stools – if this is the case, contact your vet right away as it could indicate ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract. This can be fatal.
  • Decreased appetite: Cimalgex can cause a temporary decrease in appetite in some dogs.
  • Kidney damage: NSAIDs, including Cimalgex, can affect kidney function. While rare, these can be significant and even fatal.
  • Liver damage: While rare, elevated liver enzymes may occur. Regular monitoring may be recommended.
  • Allergic reactions: In very rare cases, dogs may experience an allergic reaction, characterised by swelling, itching, or difficulty breathing.
  • Increase in drinking: Up to 1 in 10,000 dogs may get an increase in thirst. You should contact your vet if your dog is thirsty on Cimalgex.
  • Increase in urination: Up to 1 in 10,000 dogs may have an increase in urine production. You should contact your vet if your dog seems to be weeing more than usual on Cimalgex.

Remember, not all pets will experience these side effects, and the benefits of using Cimalgex often outweigh the risks, especially in pets with serious health conditions. However, if you notice any concerning symptoms or changes in your pet’s behaviour or health while they are taking Cimalgex, it’s important to contact your veterinarian immediately. They can provide guidance and adjust the treatment plan if necessary to ensure your pet’s safety and well-being.

The Veterinary Medicine’s Directorate monitors pet drugs on the market and asks for suspected side effects to be reported to them. Your vet can do this on your behalf, or you can report a suspected side effect yourself. For more information about how reporting to the VMD works, and what information you need, see our article on reporting pet drug side effects.

Which pets is Cimalgex not suitable for?

  • Cimalgex should only be used in dogs, it is not licensed for cats. However, vets can use medications off-label based on experience.
  • Cimalgex is not suitable for dogs under 10 weeks old, and its safety in dogs under 6 months old has not been confirmed; therefore it should only be used in these dogs following direct veterinary advice.
  • Cimalgex should not be used in breeding dogs or those who are pregnant or lactating. It can affect fertility as well as foetal development.
  • Cimalgex may not be suitable for dogs who won’t take tablets. However, the tablets are chewable and intended to be palatable. They can also be given with food which may make them easier to give.
  • Cimalgex shouldn’t be used in dogs who are allergic to the active ingredient.
  • Cimalgex shouldn’t be used alongside other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or steroid-based anti-inflammatories.
  • Cimalgex may not be safe for use in dogs with kidney, liver, or heart problems; therefore, always follow your vet’s advice.

How to give Cimalgex safely

  • Follow vet instructions: Always use Cimalgex exactly as your vet has prescribed. This includes the right dose and frequency. Never adjust the dose on your own, even if your dog seems to be feeling better or worse. If you aren’t sure of the dose prescribed, please call your vet to confirm.
  • Be consistent with food: Cimalgex can be given with or without food, but it’s best to be consistent every time as to whether you give it with food.
  • Check with your vet if giving anything else: Your vet should be aware of other drugs your pet is on, but it’s always worth double-checking in case there’s been a miscommunication somewhere. If your dog is on supplements or non-prescription treatments, even if they’re herbal in nature, you should also tell your vet when they prescribe Cimalgex, as they may not be suitable to be given together.
  • Storage and Handling: Store Cimalgex according to the instructions on the label, usually in a cool and dry place. Make sure it’s out of reach of children and other pets.
  • Report any accidental overdose to your vet immediately: If you have mistakenly given too much Cimalgex, report it to your vet as soon as you realise the error. They may recommend blood tests, intravenous fluids, or monitoring, depending on the severity of the overdose.
  • Wash your hands after handling: Cimalgex can cause skin sensitivity. Consider wearing gloves to handle the tablet or wash your hands immediately after handling. Contact a human healthcare professional if you are concerned.

How much monitoring do pets need on Cimalgex?

  • Two bars - this medicine has a moderate monitoring need

    Moderate

    Long-term use of Cimalgex usually requires regular blood tests

Cimalgex doesn’t normally require testing if being used short-term, but if your dog is going to be prescribed Cimalgex for more than 7 days or is elderly or ill, your vet may recommend blood tests to check their liver and kidney function. For long-term Cimalgex (over a month), regular blood testing every 6-12 months is usually recommended.

Cimalgex FAQs

How long can a dog take Cimalgex?

A dog can take Cimalgex from two hours before surgery to seven days after surgery, if needed. For the treatment of arthritis a dog can take Cimalgex for up to six months. If longer treatment is required then regular blood tests should be performed to check liver and kidney function.

Can I give Cimalgex to my pregnant or nursing dog?

It’s important not to give Cimalgex to a pregnant or nursing dog. It should also be avoided in any dog intended for breeding. This is because it can affect fertility and foetal development.

Can Cimalgex be used in puppies or senior dogs?

Cimalgex should not be used in puppies. It is ideally suitable for dogs aged six months or more; however, in some cases it can be safely used between 10 weeks and six months of age. It’s important to check a senior dog’s kidney, liver, and heart health before treating them with Cimalgex.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Cimalgex?

Cimalgex should be given at the same time every day. If a dose is missed you can still give the tablet, but you shouldn’t give another tablet for 24 hours, so continue giving the medication at the new time every day. If you’d rather keep the dose time the same, wait until the following day and monitor your dog for signs of pain.

Can my dog develop a tolerance to Cimalgex over time?

Your dog shouldn’t develop a tolerance to Cimalgex, and it should remain effective. However, since it is often used for arthritis, as the condition gets worse over time additional medication could be needed to keep your dog comfortable.

Are there specific signs that indicate Cimalgex is working for my dog’s osteoarthritis?

If Cimalgex is working for your dog’s osteoarthritis, you might notice them being more active. They may be able to get up more easily, run and play more, and any limping may resolve.

Cimalgex Alternatives

If Cimalgex isn’t suiting your dog, your vet might recommend the following Cimalgex alternatives:

Alternative forms or flavours of cimicoxib

There are currently no alternative cimicoxib medications for dogs licensed in the UK

Alternative NSAIDs for dogs in pain

Alternative NSAIDs may be recommended, such as:

Other pain-relief medications

Your vet might recommend adding other pain-relief medications alongside Cimalgex, or using them instead. These might include:

  • Tramadol (Tralieve, Tramadog, Tramalgesic, Tramtab, Tramcoat, Tramsan, Tramvetol)
  • Gabapentin
  • Amantadine
  • Paracetamol

If suitable, they might also recommend pain-relieving complementary therapies, like laser therapy, physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, acupuncture, or anti-inflammatory supplements.

Cimalgex Datasheet

All drugs have a manufacturer’s datasheet, which gives information about the drug’s use and possible side effects. There is usually one in your Cimalgex box, but if you have lost it you can click on the button below to be taken on an online version.

Cimalgex chewable tablets for dogs

Is your dog in pain?

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Each course is designed to help you manage your dog’s conditions holistically. We explain the medicines your dog might be prescribed, but also cover everything else you can do to make your dog more comfortable. Don’t forget, you get access to the course for the rest of your dog’s life, and you can sign up to receive updates whenever the course is updated!

Please note that the information contained herein is provided for informational purposes only. Although it has been written by a vet, we cannot consider the individual nature of your pet’s problems so it does not constitute veterinary advice. If you have questions about your pet’s medication or their health you should contact a vet, who will be able to help.

Dr Hannah Godfrey MRCVS

Dr Hannah Godfrey MRCVS
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