Is Onsior safer for the stomach than Metacam?

Both are COX-2-selective NSAIDs. Onsior is shorter-acting and is sometimes preferred for short-term use after surgery. Your vet decides which suits a given dog.

Can I switch from Onsior to a generic NSAID?

Only on your vet's instruction. They can prescribe whichever NSAID is most suitable and you can fill the written prescription at any VMD-approved online pharmacy.

Onsior price comparison UK

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. Active ingredient: robenacoxib. 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

£31.00–£45.00/mo

indicative UK range

Cheapest online

no data

Annual saving

—

after £21 prescription fee: £0.00–£0.00

Based on a 15 kg dog, recommended strength: 5 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.

No online price data yet for Onsior at this strength. We are building the database - check back soon.

What Onsior treats

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.

Why it costs more at the vet

Onsior is a branded Elanco product and one of the most-prescribed NSAIDs in UK first-opinion practices. Vet mark-ups on branded NSAIDs are typically 100-200% above 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
Reduced appetite

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

FAQ

Is Onsior safer for the stomach than Metacam?: Both are COX-2-selective NSAIDs. Onsior is shorter-acting and is sometimes preferred for short-term use after surgery. Your vet decides which suits a given dog.
Can I switch from Onsior to a generic NSAID?: Only on your vet's instruction. They can prescribe whichever NSAID is most suitable and you can fill the written prescription at any VMD-approved online pharmacy.

Related medications

Joint & pain

Metacam (Meloxicam)

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.

Osteoarthritis pain - newer NSAID with selective EP4 receptor action.

Track Onsior price drops

We'll email when Onsior 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.