Revolutionary Monthly Injectable Therapy
Understanding Librela
Librela is a groundbreaking monthly injectable anti-nerve growth factor (NGF) monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapy, designed exclusively for the management of canine osteoarthritis (OA) pain. By targeting NGF, a pivotal mediator in OA pain, Librela significantly reduces discomfort. It not only binds to NGF but also curtails the release of additional NGF and pro-inflammatory mediators, effectively minimizing neurogenic inflammation.
Canine OA: A Chronic Challenge
Canine Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic condition that affects dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds. It can profoundly impact their quality of life, influencing cognition, day-to-day function, sensory processing, movement, mood, sleep, and social interactions.
The Significance of NGF
Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) is a signaling protein produced by injured tissues. In mature animals, NGF assumes a crucial role in initiating and perpetuating pain. Dogs with OA exhibit elevated NGF levels in the synovial fluid of affected joints, distinguishing them from those with healthy joints.
Who Benefits from Librela
Librela is specially formulated for long-term canine OA pain management. It is recommended for dogs aged 12 months and older experiencing OA discomfort. Consider Librela for:
- Dogs requiring consistent OA pain control through a monthly injection.
- Pet owners seeking the convenience of an in-clinic monthly injection due to difficulty administering oral medications.
- Dogs that may be challenging to dose orally or need assured compliance.
- Dogs unresponsive to or intolerant of other OA pain medications.
Effectiveness and Timelines
In clinical studies, dogs treated with Librela demonstrated a marked reduction in OA pain compared to those receiving a placebo. While some dogs may experience a decrease in pain as early as 7 days after the first dose, full effectiveness may not be observed until after the second dose. Furthermore, in a continuation clinical study, dogs consistently experienced lasting OA pain relief throughout the monthly injection course.
Safety Assurance
Librela is approved as safe and effective. It operates similarly to naturally produced antibodies and is eliminated through standard protein degradation pathways with minimal liver or kidney involvement. Adverse events reported in Librela-treated dogs were consistent with the population of dogs with OA. Common events included urinary tract infections, bacterial skin infections, dermatitis, and elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN). Librela is contraindicated in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs, and those with known hypersensitivity or allergy to bedinvetmab. Safety and effectiveness have not been evaluated in dogs under 12 months of age.
Librela vs. Rimadyl®
While both Librela and Rimadyl are approved for OA pain in dogs, they operate through different mechanisms. Librela is an anti-NGF monoclonal antibody therapy, administered as a subcutaneous injection once a month by veterinary professionals. Rimadyl is an NSAID that provides pain and inflammation relief for canine OA, available in various formulations for at-home or in-clinic administration. For comprehensive understanding, please refer to the respective FDA-approved labels for mechanisms of action.