Canine arthritis has long been a challenging condition to tackle, with limited breakthroughs in treatment options. However, 2023 marks the introduction of a groundbreaking new therapy – Beransa. We're excited to share with Australian pet owners the potential of this new canine arthritis injection now available (with prescription) at PetScripts Australia.
In this article, we'll delve into what Beransa is, how it works, its efficacy, dosage, side effects, and its importance in the world of arthritis management for dogs.
What is Beransa?
Beransa, also known as bedinvetmab or Librela (outside of Australia), is a revolutionary monoclonal antibody that targets and neutralizes the nerve growth factor (NGF) responsible for pain perception in dogs. Specifically registered for alleviating pain associated with osteoarthritis in dogs, Beransa holds real hope for improving the quality of life for our beloved furry companions.
Effectiveness and Speed of Action:
Our veterinarians experience with Beransa has shown significant benefits for some dogs, but let's examine the evidence from a placebo-controlled study conducted by the parent company. The study indicates that after just one week, approximately one in six dogs experienced noticeable benefits, which increased to one in two after a month of treatment.
It's essential to remain realistic about its efficacy, as with all arthritis treatments, there is a caregiver placebo effect. While many dogs find substantial relief with Beransa, some may require additional arthritis remedies either in conjunction with or as an alternative to this medication. Your veterinarian will be able to advise whether Beransa is right for your dog.
Dosage and Frequency:
Administered through subcutaneous injection, Beransa is given at a dose of 0.5 – 1 mg/kg. The vial sizes available cater to dogs of different weights, and if desired, the dose can be repeated monthly. It's generally recommended to administer at least two doses before evaluating the medication's effectiveness. Pet owners can administer Beransa themselves but only under veterinary supervision.
Important Considerations:
Due to NGF's role in foetal and juvenile development, Beransa should not be used in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs, or those under 12 months of age. Pregnant women, those trying to conceive, and breastfeeding women must take extreme care to avoid accidental self-injection or needle stick injuries, although a treated dog poses no risk to humans.
Beransa Side Effects:
The potential side effects of Beransa are typically mild, with occasional reactions such as swelling and heat at the injection site. Hypersensitivity reactions are more common in the cat version of this drug, Solensia. As seen with other monoclonal antibodies like Cytopoint, Beransa is generally safer than traditional anti-inflammatory drugs, requiring minimal metabolism or detoxification by the liver or kidneys. However, caution is advised when using Beransa in dogs with liver or kidney disease until specific studies are available.
Cost of Beransa:
As of 2023, a single injection of Beransa at a vet clinic ranges from $100 to $130, however at PetScripts, doses start from as low as $65. While it may not be a cure-all, having an additional treatment option like Beransa is truly invaluable. Experience shows that for some dogs, it can maintain their quality of life when other treatments fall short or aren't suitable.
Conclusion:
In the quest to provide better care for our arthritic dogs, Beransa represents a significant stride forward. While it may not be suitable for every dog, it holds promise as an effective and safe option for many. If you have an arthritic dog, consider consulting your veterinarian about whether Beransa could be a beneficial addition to their treatment plan. By staying informed about innovative therapies like Beransa, we can offer our aging companions the best possible chance at a comfortable and happy life. At PetScripts Australia, we're committed to providing cutting-edge solutions like Beransa to enhance the well-being of your beloved pets.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian for specific concerns regarding your cat's health and well-being. Products mentioned in this article may only be available with a prescription from your veterinarian.
