How long can a dog take Cimalgex?

It can be used long-term under veterinary supervision, with periodic blood tests to check liver and kidney function.

Is it the same as Metacam?

No - same drug class (NSAID) but different active ingredient. Both work; your vet picks based on the dog.

Cimalgex price comparison UK

Daily COX-2-selective NSAID for the management of pain and inflammation from osteoarthritis and after orthopaedic or soft-tissue surgery. Active ingredient: cimicoxib. Below: compare UK vet prices with VMD-approved online pharmacies for your dog's weight.

Dog weight (kg)Your vet's price per month (optional, £)

Typical vet price

£34.00–£50.00/mo

indicative UK range

Cheapest online

£18.28/mo

Pet Drugs Online

Annual saving

£188.64–£380.64

after £21 prescription fee: £167.64–£359.64

Based on a 15 kg dog, recommended strength: 30 mg. Assumes 12 months of continuous use (chronic dosing) and one written prescription per year. CMA Order caps the prescription fee at £21 for the first medicine, plus £12.50 per additional medicine on the same prescription. Prices are indicative and last verified 2026-05-15. Always confirm the current price on the pharmacy site before purchase.

Pharmacy	Pack	Pack price	Monthly cost	Buy
Pet Drugs Online VMD approved · Free over £39	32 tablets	£19.50	£18.28 Best value	Buy from Pet Drugs Online
Animed Direct VMD approved · Free over £29, next-day available	32 tablets	£20.67	£19.38	Buy from Animed Direct
VetUK VMD approved · Free over £29	32 tablets	£22.03	£20.65	Buy from VetUK

What Cimalgex treats

Daily COX-2-selective NSAID for the management of pain and inflammation from osteoarthritis and after orthopaedic or soft-tissue surgery.

Why it costs more at the vet

Vetoquinol-branded chewable NSAID, dispensed routinely for chronic arthritis. Vet practice mark-ups apply on top of wholesale.

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Email template, prescription steps and refill setup — the full path from "I just paid too much at the vet" to "I'm saving £X every month".

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How to get a written prescription

The CMA Order is legally binding by 23 September 2026. Every UK vet must offer a written prescription on request, with the fee capped at £21 for the first medicine plus £12.5 per additional medicine on the same prescription. Take the prescription to any VMD-approved online pharmacy listed above. We have a short guide with a template email you can send to your practice.

Read the full prescription guide →

Common side effects

Vomiting
Soft stools
Lethargy

This is not a complete list. Always read the patient information leaflet and speak to your vet about side effects.

FAQ

How long can a dog take Cimalgex?: It can be used long-term under veterinary supervision, with periodic blood tests to check liver and kidney function.
Is it the same as Metacam?: No - same drug class (NSAID) but different active ingredient. Both work; your vet picks based on the dog.

Related medications

Joint & pain

Onsior

COX-2-selective NSAID used for short-term pain and inflammation from soft-tissue surgery and orthopaedic procedures, and longer-term for osteoarthritis in dogs over six months old.

Inflammation and pain from osteoarthritis or post-surgery in dogs. One of the most prescribed NSAIDs in UK veterinary practice.

Pain and inflammation from osteoarthritis and after soft-tissue surgery.

Pain and inflammation from osteoarthritis and post-surgery.

Track Cimalgex price drops

We'll email when Cimalgex drops in price at any of the pharmacies above.

Pricing data status: indicative. Last verified 2026-05-15. Pharmacies change prices regularly - always confirm before purchase. Not medical advice.