The country's 10 million arthritic dogs can now benefit from the same class of pain control as human arthritis sufferers. Deramaxx (deracoxib) chewable tablets have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the control of pain and inflammation associated with canine osteoarthritis.

It is the first and only drug that controls canine arthritis pain and inflammation in a way similar to its human counterparts Celebrex and Vioxx -- two drugs that have revolutionized the treatment of human arthritis. Like those medications, Deramaxx belongs to the coxib class of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In addition to arthritis pain control, Deramaxx is approved to control postoperative inflammation and pain from canine orthopedic surgery.

"Coxibs uniquely target the specific enzymes primarily responsible for arthritic pain and inflammation," says Dr. David Stansfield, director of professional services, Novartis Animal Health. "At the same time, Deramaxx spares beneficial enzymes that are needed for platelet formation and gastrointestinal functions, all which are critical to a dog's health and well-being."

Stansfield says that Deramaxx selective properties have been scientifically demonstrated by using cloned canine cyclo-oxygenase during in vitro studies. Although the clinical relevance of these in vitro findings is unknown, researchers are excited about the results.

"By controlling some of the enzymes, or chemicals, that stimulate reactions in the body associated with pain and inflammation of arthritis, Deramaxx makes it easier for dogs to move more freely and be more active," says Dr. Darryl Millis, an associate professor of orthopedic surgery at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, who participated in the drug's clinical trials. "Often arthritic dogs are caught in a vicious cycle of not being able to exercise because it hurts. This results in weight gain, which puts even more stress on their joints and makes their arthritis pain even worse.

"The results of our clinical study showed rapid, significant improvements in lameness with Deramaxx," Millis continues. "And as a member of the coxib class of NSAIDs, the drug appears to have a very good safety profile for everyday, long-term use in healthy dogs."