FDA approves cat NSAID tablet
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new drug for controlling pain in cats. The drug, robenacoxib, is a non-steroidal anti-Inflammatory drug, (NSAID), making it the only NSAID approved for use in cats besides meloxicam. Unlike meloxicam, which is approved for cats as an injection, robenacoxib is a tablet. It is sold by Novartis Animal Health under the brand name Onsior. Onsior was introduced into the European market in 2009.
According to the FDA, the approved usage of robenacoxib is as follows:
- Each tablet contains 6 mg robenacoxib
- Conditions of use in cats:
Amount: Administer 0.45 mg per pound (/lb) (1 mg/kilogram (kg)) once daily
Indications for use: For the control of postoperative pain and inflammation associated with orthopedic surgery, ovariohysterectomy,
and castration in cats weighing at least 5.5 lb (2.5 kg) and at least 6 months of age; for up to a maximum of 3 days.
Amount: Administer 0.45 mg per pound (/lb) (1 mg/kilogram (kg)) once daily
Indications for use: For the control of postoperative pain and inflammation associated with orthopedic surgery, ovariohysterectomy,
and castration in cats weighing at least 5.5 lb (2.5 kg) and at least 6 months of age; for up to a maximum of 3 days.
The approval announcement was published in the Federal Register on April 5.