Zoetis officially launches 2 FDA approved drugs in the US veterinary market

Officials with the FDA approved bedinvetmab injection (Librela; Zoetis) for the control of pain associated with osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs on May 5, 2023. This prescription drug was the first monoclonal antibody (mAb) the FDA has approved for use in dogs. Oclacitinib chewable tablets (Apoquel Chewable; Zoetis) were approved by the FDA on June 13, 2023 for the control of pruritus associated with allergic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis in dogs aged 1 year or older. This tablet was the first chewable treatment for the control of allergic itch and inflammation in dogs available in the US. Both veterinary drugs are now available for prescription by veterinarians in the US.¹

“As a recognized leader in canine health care, Zoetis is committed to continually exploring opportunities to advance the treatment landscape for dogs,” said Ester Banque, executive vice president and president, US operations at Zoetis. “With Librela, veterinarians now have access to an innovative therapy that may improve treatment compliance and quality of life for beloved pets. OA pain is a prevalent condition in many dogs, and we look forward to working with veterinarians to positively impact the health and wellbeing of dogs and further strengthen the bond pet owners share with their dogs.”¹

Bedinvetmab injection is a monoclonal antibody therapy administered by a veterinary professional once a month and dosed by weight range to target a minimum dose of 0.5 mg/kg.² Oclacitinib chewable tablets are an oral medication available in a size containing 250 tablets and administered at 0.18 to 0.27 mg oclacitinib/lb (0.4 to 0.6 mg oclacitinib/kg) body weight, twice daily for up to 14 days, and then given once daily for maintenance therapy.³

“When it comes to addressing common health issues in canines, our approach is to understand our customers’ unmet needs and apply our scientific expertise to develop the best solution,” said Robert J. Polzer, PhD, executive vice president and president, research & development, at Zoetis. “We are committed to exploring new treatment modalities and formulations that reflect the real-world needs of pet owners. Innovations like Librela and Apoquel Chewable give veterinarians the flexibility to provide individualized treatment for the dogs in their care, which can result in better outcomes for these beloved animals.”¹

References

1. Zoetis demonstrates canine innovation leadership with commercial launch of Librela (bedinvetmab injection) in the US. News release. Zoetis. October 9, 2023. Accessed October 11, 2023. https://www.zoetisus.com/news-and-media/zoetis-demonstrates-canine-innovation-leadership-with-commercial-launch-of-librela
2. FDA approves first monoclonal antibody for dogs with osteoarthritis pain. News release. FDA. May 5, 2023. Accessed May 5, 2023. https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/cvm-updates/fda-approves-first-monoclonal-antibody-dogs-osteoarthritis-pain?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
3. Apoquel / Apoquel Chewable. Zoetis. Accessed October 11, 2023. https://www.zoetisus.com/products/dogs/apoquel