Firocoxib (Equioxx®) for Horses

PetMD’s medications content was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer your most common questions about how medications function, their side effects, and what species they are prescribed for. This content shouldn’t take the place of advice by your vet.

What Is Firocoxib (Equioxx®) for Horses?

Equioxx® (firocoxib) for horses is an FDA-approved non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) prescription medication used in horses to treat pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.

Like other medications in its class, it may also be used to control fevers and inflammation caused by other conditions. Equioxx® belongs to a subcategory of NSAIDs called COX-2 inhibitors (coxibs) that have the unique property of causing less stomach and intestinal side effects compared to traditional NSAIDs.

Equioxx® is often considered to be the preferred NSAID in the treatment of fever and pain in sick foals because there are fewer side effects compared to other NSAIDs. Equioxx® is typically well tolerated in horses and is an option for long-term pain relief when used as directed by your veterinarian.

Equioxx® for horses may be used for a longer period of time in an extra-label capacity as directed by your veterinarian. The term off- or extra-label means that a medication is used in a way, or in a particular species, that is not specified on the medication label.  While veterinarians often prescribe medications for off-label uses, your veterinarian will determine the dose and duration that is right for your horse.

Firocoxib (Equioxx®) Considerations for Horses

Equioxx® should not be used in horses that are hypersensitive to it or to other NSAIDs. Equioxx® should be used with caution in horses with kidney disease, liver disease, or heart disease, and in horses with dehydration, low blood volume, or low blood pressure.

Safety studies concerning the use of Equioxx® in horses younger than 1 year of age, breeding horses, pregnant mares, or lactating mares had not been performed at the time of this publication.

Giving Equioxx® to horses with certain medications can result in health risks to your horse, so  always discuss your horse’s medical conditions and medications, including vitamins and supplements, with your veterinarian.

Treatment with Equioxx® for horses requires monitoring and close supervision by your veterinarian. Before and during your horse’s treatment, your vet will perform blood tests to evaluate the effects of the drug on a horse’s liver, kidneys, and immune system.

How Firocoxib (Equioxx®) Works in Horses

Equioxx® is a selective NSAID that is subcategorized as a COX-2 inhibitor. Like other NSAIDs, it blocks the body’s COX-2 pathway, which lowers the production of natural chemicals that trigger inflammation—reducing fever and offering pain relief.

Due to its selective property, Equioxx® typically spares the COX-1 pathway that is associated with digestion, kidney health, and blood clotting. This is beneficial because it causes fewer side effects compared to traditional NSAIDs.

However, it’s important to note that Equioxx® can still partially block these beneficial chemicals at high doses, so it’s important to follow your veterinarian’s directions exactly.

Firocoxib (Equioxx®) Directions for Horses

Follow the directions on the drug label or as provided by your veterinarian. Oral Equioxx® is typically given once daily for up to 14 consecutive days.

Missed a Dose?

Speak with your veterinarian about what to do if you forget to give a dose of Equioxx®.

Possible Side Effects of Firocoxib (Equioxx®) in Horses

Most horses tolerate Equioxx® well. Possible side effects may include:

• Sores on the mouth, face, or lips

• Mouth or stomach ulcers

• Right dorsal colitis—which can present as diarrhea, dehydration, lethargy, decreased appetite, dark mucous membranes, and/or increased heart rate

• Kidney disease 

• Diarrhea or loose stools

• Black or tarry stools

• Loss of appetite

• Hypoproteinemia (low blood protein levels), which can present as weight loss or swelling of the limbs (edema)

• Jaundice (yellowing of the gums, skin, or eyes)

Treatment with Equioxx®  in horses should be stopped if signs such as lack of appetite, colic, abnormal feces, or lethargy are observed. If you believe your horse may be experiencing any side effects, consult your veterinarian.

Human Side Effects

This medication is not used in humans. If you accidentally ingest a veterinary medication, call your physician or the national Poison Control Center hotline at 800-222-1222.   

Monitoring

Specific monitoring or routine testing while your horse is on this medication may be recommended by your veterinarian depending on your horse’s individual needs, other medications they may be on, and/or the issue that initially caused your pet to be placed on this medication.

Generally, appropriate laboratory tests such as bloodwork are performed before beginning treatment and periodically during administration of any NSAID.

Call Your Vet If:

• Severe side effects are seen (see above)

• Your horse's condition worsens or does not improve with treatment

• You see or suspect an overdose

• You have additional questions or concerns about the use of Equioxx®

Overdose Information for Firocoxib (Equioxx®) in Horses

Oral ulcers are the most common symptom of an Equioxx® overdose. These ulcers may occur on the face, lips, gums, or tongue. Kidney damage is also possible, so monitoring for changes in appetite, energy levels, water intake, and changes in urination is important.

If you suspect an overdose, immediately contact your veterinarian, seek emergency veterinary care, or contact an animal poison control center. Consultation fees often apply.

Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661

ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435

Firocoxib (Equioxx®) Storage for Horses

Equioxx® should be stored according to the medication label and at controlled temperatures from 59 F to 86 F. Brief exposure to temperatures up to 104 F are acceptable. Keep the container tightly closed to protect from moisture and light.

Keep out of reach of children and pets.