Osteoarthritis is a common and painful condition affecting many cats, significantly impacting their quality of life. Fortunately, advancements in veterinary medicine have led to innovative treatments like Solensia™. Approved by the FDA in January 2022, Solensia™ marks a breakthrough as the first and only FDA-approved medication specifically designed to control osteoarthritis pain in cats. Administered as a monthly injection by your veterinarian, Solensia™ offers a targeted approach to pain management, helping your feline companion live a more comfortable and active life. This guide will delve into the details of Solensia™, explaining how it works, what to expect during treatment, potential side effects, and other essential information for cat owners considering this option.
Understanding Solensia™: How it Works to Relieve Cat Pain
Solensia™ harnesses the power of frunevetmab, a revolutionary active ingredient classified as a monoclonal antibody. Monoclonal antibodies are lab-created proteins engineered to target specific substances within the body. Frunevetmab is uniquely formulated for cats and holds the distinction of being the first monoclonal antibody approved by the FDA for veterinary use.
In cats suffering from osteoarthritis, the protective cartilage in their joints deteriorates. This breakdown leads to bones rubbing directly against each other, causing significant pain and discomfort. Frunevetmab, the key component of Solensia™, works by specifically targeting and binding to a protein messenger known as nerve growth factor (NGF). NGF plays a crucial role in transmitting pain signals to the brain. By blocking NGF, frunevetmab effectively disrupts the pain signaling pathway, preventing pain sensations from reaching your cat’s brain. This targeted action helps reduce osteoarthritis-related pain, allowing cats to move more freely and experience improved well-being.
Alt text: A veterinarian gently administers a Solensia injection to a calm cat on an examination table, highlighting veterinary care for feline osteoarthritis.
Solensia™ Administration: What to Expect During Veterinary Visits
Solensia™ is exclusively available through prescription from your veterinarian and must be administered at a veterinary clinic. This requirement ensures that your cat receives a proper diagnosis of osteoarthritis-related pain and that the injection is given safely and correctly by a trained professional. Veterinary expertise is essential for accurately diagnosing osteoarthritis, administering the subcutaneous injection, and monitoring your cat’s response to Solensia™ therapy. Solensia™ is administered as a subcutaneous injection, meaning it is injected under the skin. The dosage is carefully calculated based on your cat’s individual weight to ensure optimal pain relief.
What Happens During a Solensia™ Vet Visit?
Typically, your veterinarian will schedule monthly appointments for your cat to receive their Solensia™ injection. These regular visits allow your vet to not only administer the medication but also to closely monitor your cat’s progress and response to the treatment. This ongoing assessment is crucial for ensuring the effectiveness and safety of Solensia™ for your cat.
What if You Miss a Monthly Dose?
If you happen to miss your cat’s scheduled monthly Solensia™ injection appointment, it is important to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. They can advise you on the best course of action and reschedule an appointment to ensure your cat receives their next dose without significant delay. Maintaining a consistent monthly injection schedule is key to effectively managing your cat’s osteoarthritis pain with Solensia™.
Understanding Potential Solensia™ Side Effects in Cats
While Solensia™ is generally considered safe and well-tolerated by cats, like all medications, it may have potential side effects. It’s important for cat owners to be aware of these possible reactions and to monitor their cats during treatment.
Common Side Effects:
Some cats may experience mild and temporary side effects after receiving a Solensia™ injection. These can include:
- Vomiting: Occasional vomiting may occur in some cats.
- Diarrhea: Loose stool or diarrhea is another potential gastrointestinal side effect.
- Pain at the Injection Site: Mild discomfort or pain at the injection site may be observed temporarily.
- Scabs on the Head and Neck: In rare cases, some cats may develop scabs, particularly on the head or neck area.
- Itchy Skin (Pruritus): Increased scratching or itchy skin has been reported in a small number of cats.
Important Considerations and Contraindications:
- Hypersensitivity: Solensia™ should not be administered to cats with a known hypersensitivity to frunevetmab or any of its components.
- Breeding, Pregnant, and Lactating Cats: The safety of Solensia™ has not been established in breeding, pregnant, or lactating cats. It should be avoided in these populations as frunevetmab may cross the placental barrier and be present in milk.
Human Side Effects and Safety Precautions:
Solensia™ is specifically developed for cats and is not approved for human use. Accidental self-injection can pose risks to humans. Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or attempting to conceive should exercise extreme caution to avoid accidental self-injection. It is advisable to allow veterinary staff to handle and position your cat during Solensia™ administration.
In the event of accidental self-injection, hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, are possible. Seek immediate medical attention if self-injection occurs and inform your physician by showing them the package leaflet or label.
When to Contact Your Veterinarian:
It is important to contact your veterinarian if you observe any of the following:
- Severe Side Effects: If your cat experiences severe side effects, such as those listed above becoming pronounced or concerning.
- Worsening Condition or Lack of Improvement: If your cat’s condition appears to worsen or does not show improvement with Solensia™ treatment.
- Suspected Overdose: If you suspect your cat may have received an overdose of Solensia™.
- Any Questions or Concerns: If you have any questions or concerns regarding the use of Solensia™ for your cat.
Alt text: Detailed close-up of a cat’s paw, emphasizing the joints affected by feline osteoarthritis, a condition Solensia aims to treat.
Solensia™ Overdose Information and Management
While Solensia™ has a good safety profile in cats, overdose is a possibility with any medication. However, Solensia™ is generally well-tolerated, even at higher doses.
Symptoms of Overdose:
Signs of a Solensia™ overdose in cats may include:
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Vomiting and diarrhea.
- Skin Issues: Scabs, itching, and hair loss.
What to Do in Case of Suspected Overdose:
If you suspect your cat has received an overdose of Solensia™, take immediate action:
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Contact Your Veterinarian Immediately: This is the first and most crucial step.
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Seek Emergency Veterinary Care: If your vet is unavailable, seek emergency veterinary care at the nearest animal hospital.
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Contact Animal Poison Control: You can also contact an animal poison control center for guidance. Note that consultation fees may apply.
- Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 (https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/)
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 (https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control)
Solensia™ Storage Guidelines: Ensuring Medication Integrity
Proper storage of Solensia™ is crucial to maintain its effectiveness and safety. Veterinary clinics are responsible for storing Solensia™ correctly.
Veterinary Storage Requirements:
- Refrigeration: Solensia™ must be stored in the refrigerator between 35-46°F (2-8°C).
- Do Not Freeze: Freezing Solensia™ is strictly prohibited as it can damage the medication.
- Protect from Light: Solensia™ should be protected from light exposure.
Always Verify Storage Instructions:
Always double-check the prescription label for specific storage instructions and expiry dates.
Keep Out of Reach of Children and Pets:
Like all medications, Solensia™ should be stored securely and kept out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion or misuse.
Solensia™ for Cats: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does Solensia™ for cats cost?
The cost of Solensia™ injections can vary depending on several factors, including your geographical location, the type of veterinary practice (e.g., hospital vs. clinic), and the required dosage for your cat based on their weight. It’s best to discuss the cost with your veterinarian to get an accurate estimate for your specific situation.
What conditions does Solensia™ treat in cats?
Solensia™ is specifically approved by the FDA for the control of pain associated with osteoarthritis in cats. It is a targeted treatment designed to alleviate pain and improve mobility in cats suffering from this degenerative joint condition.
Important Note: No veterinary writer or qualified reviewer has received any compensation from the manufacturer of Solensia™ for the creation of this article. All content is based on publicly available information and the manufacturer’s product information.
References:
- SOLENSIA – Frunevetmab Injection [US Product Label for Cats]. Zoetis Inc.; 2022. https://www.zoetisus.com/content/_assets/docs/solensia-pi.pdf
- Gruen ME, Myers JAE, Tena JS, Becskei C, Cleaver DM, Lascelles BDX. Frunevetmab, a felinized antiâ€nerve growth factor monoclonal antibody, for the treatment of pain from osteoarthritis in cats. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine. 2021;35(6):2752-2762.
- Gearing DP, Huebner M, Virtue ER, et al. In Vitro and In Vivo Characterization of a Fully Felinized Therapeutic Antiâ€Nerve Growth Factor Monoclonal Antibody for the Treatment of Pain in Cats. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine. 2016;30(4):1129-1137.
WRITTEN BY:
Molly Price, DVM
Veterinarian
