|
Elanco Animal Health Incorporated, a global leader in animal health, announced its latest entry into the rapidly growing canine dermatology space with the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) approval of Befrena (tirnovetmab), a new anti-IL31 monoclonal antibody (mAb) injection targeting canine allergic and atopic dermatitis. Importantly, Befrena is recommended at a dosing interval of 6 to 8 weeks post-treatment, which stands in contrast to the 4 to 8 weeks of the current market competitor, lokivetmab.
USDA approval of Befrena further demonstrates Elanco’s commitment to going beyond to deliver differentiated, high-quality products in every key therapeutic area, specifically bolstering its leadership in canine dermatology and monoclonal antibodies. Elanco continues to expect to launch Befrena in the first half of 2026.
The approval of Befrena marks Elanco’s second dermatology product approved in less than 18 months, as it joins Zenrelia (ilunocitinib tablets), an effective, convenient, and safe once-daily oral JAK inhibitor for control of itching and inflammation associated with skin allergies in dogs at least 12 months of age. In September, Elanco announced improvements to the US Zenrelia label with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) concluding “the totality of evidence supports removal of the risk of fatal vaccine-induced disease from modified live virus vaccines from the labelling."
The label Boxed Warning continues to advise discontinuation of Zenrelia for at least 28 days to 3 months prior to vaccination and withholding Zenrelia for at least 28 days after vaccination.
“The animal health sector is increasingly focused on antibody-based therapies, and today’s approval is an important step forward in delivering high-impact innovation that enhances the quality of life for pets,” said Dr. Ellen de Brabander, executive vice president of research & development at Elanco. “We are pleased to offer veterinarians and pet owners Befrena, which delivers long lasting relief to treat dogs with allergic itch.”
Earlier this year Elanco launched the America’s Itchy Dogs Report, a first-of-its-kind report highlighting the impact itch has on dogs, their owners, and veterinarians. The report includes findings from multiple surveys of pet owners, as well as veterinarians, and reveals startling details on how badly dogs around the country are itching for relief and cost-effective, long-lasting solutions. According to the report, 9 in 10 dogs in the US are “itchy dogs” according to their pet owners, having experienced symptoms of itchiness at some point in the year. Pet owners typically try many at-home solutions before finally seeking veterinary care. On average, pet owners spend about $400 on over-the-counter remedies and wait six weeks before taking their pet to the veterinarian. Veterinarians say that itchy dog owners wait too long before bringing their dog, resulting in raw and infected skin and also an irritated dog owner who wants their dog to experience relief quickly.
Research shows that nearly 70% of veterinarians would be willing to stock another dermatology product in an effort to help more dogs find itch relief.
“Veterinarians need more options for itch relief so they can offer targeted therapy that focuses on mode of action to meet the unique needs of the individual patient to deliver fast, effective and valuable itch relief,” said Dr. Griffin, veterinary dermatologist. “USDA approval of Befrena brings veterinarians a step closer to having another beneficial and safe treatment option. I’m excited to collaborate with Elanco and plan to offer this product in my practice when it becomes available.”
Zenrelia is a prescription medication used to control itching and inflammation associated with skin allergies for dogs over 12 months of age.
Elanco Animal Health Incorporated is a global leader in animal health dedicated to innovating and delivering products and services to prevent and treat disease in farm animals and pets, creating value for farmers, pet owners, veterinarians, stakeholders and society as a whole.
|