Man’s BestFriends Tap Into Man’s Best Medicine (NAPSA)—Asveterinary medicine strives to keep up with pet owner expectations for improved animal care, it often turns to human medicine. In fact, more than 300 drugs available to America’s pets can trace their roots back to human drug advances. The result is that humans and animals are increasingly taking similar drugsfor similar diseases. The latest example to hit the veterinary shelf: Novartis Animal Health’s Deramaxx”™, a prescription arthritis drug for dogs that is born from the samecoxib family of NSAIDs (non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs) as Celebrex and Vioxx. It’s the only coxibclass NSAID to receive approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the control of pain and inflammation associated with caninearthritis. Despite the similarities, doctors warn that animal and human drugs should not be viewed as interchangeable. There are important differences in concentrations of active and inactive ingredients. For most pet owners, the important point is that the end result is the same. With Deramaxx, dogs have access to a safe and effective treatment that provides day-long control of arthritis pain and inflammation. The FDAapproval process for companion animal drugsis similar to that used for humansaswell. “While clinical trials for ani- mal drugs are typically smaller than for human drugs, pet drugs must meet standards similar to those for human drugs,” explains Dr. Steven Fox, director of pain management at Novartis Animal Health. “Animal health companies must apply the samerigorous scientific standards to their studies.” Fox also points out that similar to their own health care choices, Human medical researchis help- ing pets. For instance, one pet drug that’s based on a humananti-inflammatory drug controls canine arthritis pain and inflammation. pet owners should follow similar guidelines when investigating treatments for their pets. “Pet owners need to work closely with their veterinarians,” he says. “Be sure you understand the dosing. Ask about possible side effects and ask for printed educational materials.” As with all drugs, side effects may occur. These are usually mild, but may be serious. In an osteoarthritis field study, the most common side effects were gastrointestinal signs. Tell your veterinarian if your dog has any existing medical conditions. Pets on all medications should be regularly monitored. Refer to full product information available from your veterinarian. For more information, visit www.deramaxx.com. NADA141-203, Approved by FDA.
