FDA Warns Vets of Serious Complications Linked to Common Dog Arthritis Drug Librela
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from arthritis, but as pet owners, we never want to hear our dog's medicine is making them worse instead of better. Last week, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published a letter to veterinarians notifying them of severe adverse events linked to Librela (bedinvetmab injection) a common drug used to treat arthritis in dogs.
Here's what you should know about the FDA's findings and what to do if you believe your dog has suffered an adverse event due to being treated with Librela.
What is Librela?
Librela, sponsored by pet health company Zoetis, is an antibody treatment given by injection used to manage pain associated with osteoarthritis in dogs. Librela was first reviewed and approved by the FDA in May 2023, becoming the first monoclonal antibody drug of its kind after determining it to be safe and effective for its intended use. If prescribed, Librela is dosed based on a dog's weight and given as a monthly injection
Adverse Events Linked to Librela
The FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine summarized and reviewed adverse events linked to Librela between the approval date of May 5, 2023, and March 2024. Based on the report's findings, the following events identified include:
- Ataxia (loss of muscle control)
- Anorexia
- Lethargy
- Seizures
- Paresis (partial loss or impairment of muscle function)
- Recumbency (inability to stand)
- Urinary incontinence (loss of bladder control)
- Polyuria (excessive urination)
- Polydipsia (excessive thirst)
In some cases, death (including from euthanasia) was reported as the outcome of these adverse events.
In a company press release, Zoetis' Chief Medical Officer Richard Goldstein, DVM, DACVIM, DECVIM-CA, states the company is taking all new information seriously and is closely monitoring new reports of adverse events. Additionally, Goldstein advises veterinarians to rule out any potential alternate diagnoses to osteoarthritis before prescribing Librela, as the drug's only approved use is for managing osteoarthritis pain.