What is frunevetmab?
Frunevetmab (Solensia®) is a formulation of feline anti-nerve growth factor (anti-NGF) antibodies used to control osteoarthritis pain in cats. The medication reduces pain signaling between the arthritic joint and the central nervous system. Frunevetmab is only used in cats.
How is frunevetmab given?
- Frunevetmab is given by an injection under the skin, usually at the veterinary clinic.
- If frunevetmab is given at the same time as a vaccination, it should be injected at a different site on the body than the vaccines.
- If inadvertent human dosing occurs, contact your physician immediately.
You may notice improvement in your cat’s mobility within a few days to weeks of the first injection; however, it may take more than one month of use before optimal results are reached.
What if I miss giving a dose to my cat?
If your cat misses an injection, talk to your veterinarian about when to schedule their next dose.
Are there any potential side effects?
Frunevetmab may cause the following side effects (noted in drug trials):
- Pain at the injection site
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Appetite loss
- Itching, scabbing, and hair loss on the head and neck
- Anxiety
- Ear infections
Serious adverse reactions associated with this drug may occur without warning and could, in rare cases, lead to death. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving frunevetmab and contact your veterinarian immediately:
- Allergic reactions characterized by facial swelling, hives, difficulty breathing, or collapse
Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice anything out of the ordinary and ensure all follow-up lab work and exams are completed as directed by your veterinarian.
Drug sensitivities can develop over time, with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.
Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. Long-term side effects occurring more than 6 months after using frunevetmab have not been evaluated. This long-acting medication should stop working within one month, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
DO NOT USE frunevetmab in:
- Cats that are allergic or sensitive to it
- Cats that are breeding, pregnant, or nursing
- Cats that weigh less than 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg)
USE WITH CAUTION in:
- Cats that receive other monoclonal antibody treatments
- Cats that are on nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs; meloxicam, robenacoxib)
- Cats that have pre-existing diseases
Use of frunevetmab in later stages of kidney disease has not been assessed.
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
There are no documented drug interactions for this medication. Although not specifically evaluated, during the safety study for this medication, the following medications were used simultaneously with no apparent adverse effects: parasiticides, antibiotics, antifungals, antidepressants, antiemetics, corticosteroids, NSAIDs, vaccines, immunotherapy, antihistamines, and other antipruritics.
In human trials of human anti-NGF monoclonal antibody therapy, some patients also receiving NSAIDs developed rapidly progressing osteoarthritis (RPOA). This condition has not been reported in cats.
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.
Is any monitoring needed with this medication?
- Your veterinarian may recommend baseline bloodwork and urinalysis before your cat starts frunevetmab.
- During long-term use, your veterinarian may recommend periodic monitoring with blood, urine, and recheck examinations to ensure your cat’s pain is adequately managed and to screen for underlying conditions that may affect treatment.
- Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
- At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.
How do I store frunevetmab?
- Store this medication in the refrigerator between 35°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C).
- Protect it from freezing and direct sunlight.
- Keep the container out of reach of children and pets.
- Discard vials after use in accordance with local waste requirements.
What should I do in case of an emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms.
