Get ready for a game-changer in canine healthcare! The battle against osteoarthritis pain in dogs just got a powerful new weapon. Zoetis, a pioneer in animal health, has received the green light from the European Commission to market Lenivia® (izenivetmab), an innovative antibody therapy designed to reduce osteoarthritis (OA) pain in our furry friends. But here’s where it gets controversial…
Lenivia is not your average pain reliever. Through its unique binding properties to nerve growth factor (NGF), a key player in pain and inflammation, this therapy offers a whole new approach to managing OA pain. And the best part? One injection provides relief for a whopping three months!
This breakthrough therapy is backed by a decade of scientific research and a nine-month field study, showcasing its safety and effectiveness. Dogs treated with Lenivia experienced increased mobility and reduced pain, giving them (and their owners) a better quality of life.
Dr. Rob Polzer, Executive Vice President and President of Research and Development at Zoetis, emphasizes their commitment to understanding the unique biology of each species. “The European Commission’s authorization for Lenivia is a significant step forward in our mission to address unmet medical needs in animal health,” he says.
Osteoarthritis is a common and progressive joint disease, causing inflammation and breakdown of joints, leading to pain and mobility issues. While it can’t be cured, managing the pain is crucial for improving a dog’s overall well-being. Nearly 40% of dogs, regardless of age or size, can suffer from OA pain, and chronic pain can negatively impact their movement, sleep, behavior, and social interactions.
Dr. Guillaume Ragetly, an orthopedic surgeon in France, highlights the importance of having more tools to manage OA pain: “Osteoarthritis can be a real challenge for dogs and their owners. Having effective treatments like Lenivia allows veterinarians to provide the highest standard of care, ensuring our furry patients can live happier, more comfortable lives.”
Zoetis is committed to advancing animal care globally, and Lenivia is just one of their innovative solutions. With a robust pipeline of products, they continue to meet the medical needs of animals and their owners. Lenivia joins Librela® (bedinvetmab) in their growing portfolio of OA pain products for dogs. While both target NGF, Lenivia’s design allows for longer-lasting pain relief by binding to a different site on the NGF molecule.
Dr. Richard Goldstein, Global Chief Medical Officer and Head of Medical Affairs at Zoetis, emphasizes the convenience and effectiveness of Lenivia: “We’re thrilled to introduce Lenivia as our first long-acting therapy for OA pain in dogs. It not only improves quality of life and mobility but also provides pet owners with the convenience of an injection just once every three months.”
As the world’s leading animal health company, Zoetis is dedicated to nurturing our world and humankind by advancing animal care. With a rich history of innovation spanning over 70 years, they continue to stand by those who raise and care for animals worldwide.
So, there you have it! Lenivia® (izenivetmab) is a groundbreaking therapy offering hope and relief to dogs suffering from osteoarthritis pain. But here’s the part most people miss: it’s not just about the science; it’s about improving the lives of our beloved pets.
What do you think about this innovative approach to managing OA pain in dogs? Do you have any personal experiences with osteoarthritis in your furry friends? We’d love to hear your thoughts and stories in the comments below!