New drug Líbrela could be a game-changer for dogs with osteoarthritis
Canine osteoarthritis is a common and debilitating condition that affects millions of dogs worldwide. It causes chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, significantly impacting a dog's quality of life.
However, a new drug named Líbrela has emerged as a potential game-changer in the treatment of this condition.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects both humans and animals. In dogs, it commonly occurs because of age, genetics, obesity, joint trauma or repetitive stress on the joints. The condition involves the gradual breakdown of cartilage, leading to inflammation, pain and reduced joint function.
Líbrela is an innovative monoclonal antibody drug specifically developed to alleviate the symptoms of osteoarthritis in dogs. It targets the underlying causes of joint inflammation and pain. Líbrela's unique formulation and mode of action make it a promising solution for arthritic pain. What is a monoclonal antibody? They are synthetic proteins that act like proteins called antibodies in our bodies. Antibodies are parts of the immune system. They seek out the antigens and stick to them in order to destroy them. They bind to receptors.
Líbrela's drug name is Bedinvetmab, a recombinant canine monoclonal antibody that binds to nerve growth factor, reduces NGF binding to the tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrkA) and p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) receptors and decreases TrkA signal transduction in cell types involved in pain.
Why is NGF so important? Because it has been found to be elevated in the osteoarthritic joints of dogs. Following a painful stimulus, substances like inflammatory cytokines and NGF are released by tissues of the joint.
NGF binds to receptors found on peripheral nerves, immune cells, endothelial cells, synoviocytes, and chondrocytes to induce neurogenic inflammation and increased pain perception. Bedinvetmab binds to NGF and targets the origin of the cascade of events that produces painful joints.
Líbrela has undergone rigorous testing and has sold over 8 million doses worldwide that demonstrate its safety and efficacy. It is specifically formulated for dogs, but cats have their own monoclonal antibody injection called Solensia (frunevetmab).
The introduction of Líbrela and the counterpart for cats into the market represents a significant advancement in the treatment of osteoarthritis. By effectively managing pain, Líbrela has the potential to help in other chronic painful conditions. In cats, we use Solensia as an adjuvant treatment for stomatitis and cystitis with promising results.
Furthermore, Líbrela's success may lead to increased awareness and research in the field of veterinary medicine, encouraging development of innovative treatments for various other canine health issues.
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Líbrela is not recommended for pregnant or lactating dogs. The main side effect reported is a hypersensitive reaction, this will need veterinary care.
The safety of concurrent administration with other monoclonal antibody treatments like Cytopoint has not been studied. Using it along with vaccinations also has not been studied, so our recommendation is to do it separately.
Ask your veterinarian if your pet can be a candidate for it.
This article originally appeared on The Ledger: New monoclonal antibody could help dogs with canine osteoarthritis
