Frunevetmab, sold under the brand name Solensia, is a monoclonal antibody used to treat pain associated with osteoarthritis in cats.[3] It is the first monoclonal antibody drug approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for animal use.[3] Frunevetmab is the international nonproprietary name.[5]
Monoclonal antibody | |
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Type | Whole antibody |
Source | Rat |
Target | Nerve growth factor (NGF) |
Clinical data | |
Trade names | Solensia |
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Routes of administration | Subcutaneous |
ATCvet code | |
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Clinical usage
Frunevetmab is a cat-specific monoclonal antibody (a type of protein) designed to recognize and attach to a protein called nerve growth factor that is involved in the regulation of pain.[3] When frunevetmab binds to nerve growth factor, it prevents the pain signal from reaching the brain.[3]
Frunevetmab is indicated for the alleviation of pain associated with osteoarthritis in cats.[3][4]
The most common side effects seen in cats include vomiting, diarrhea, injection site pain, scabbing on the head and neck, dermatitis, and pruritus (itchy skin).[3]
History
In February 2021, frunevetmab was approved for medical use in the European Union.[4]
In January 2022, frunevetmab was approved for medical use in the United States.[3][6]
Development as a potential drug for humans was stopped due to risk concerns over worsening osteoarthritis.[7]
References
This article incorporates public domain material from the United States Department of Health and Human Services
Bibliography
- Gruen ME, Myers JA, Lascelles BD (2021). "Efficacy and Safety of an Anti-nerve Growth Factor Antibody (Frunevetmab) for the Treatment of Degenerative Joint Disease-Associated Chronic Pain in Cats: A Multisite Pilot Field Study". Frontiers in Veterinary Science. 8: 610028. doi:10.3389/fvets.2021.610028. PMC 8195238. PMID 34124212.