IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION ABOUT LIBRELA
— a new pain medication for dogs
Librela
Is an injectable drug used to control pain associated with osteoarthritis in dogs. The FDA approved Librela prior to its European launch in 2021 and in the US on May 5, 2024. So far, twenty-one million doses have been distributed globally. Its availability was hailed as a valued product by veterinarians and pet parents alike, as it has proved to effectively treat dogs suffering from osteoarthritis pain with a single monthly injection.
Prior to approval, the FDA reviewed available studies and other data on Librela and determined it to be safe and effective for controlling osteoarthritic pain in dogs. The most common side effects that occurred in the initial clinical study were urinary tract infections, bacterial skin infections and dermatitis.
Recent Concerns
Recently the U.S. FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine completed an evaluation of adverse events reported in dogs of various ages treated with Librela. The adverse events identified and analyzed included incoordination, seizures, other neurologic signs, including but not limited to, weakness, recumbency, urinary incontinence, increased drinking and urinating. In some rare cases, death (including euthanasia) was reported as an outcome of these adverse events.
Should my dog be treated with Librela?
Although the risk of a very serious adverse reaction to the medication is rare, it can occur. There are a variety of pain medications available to treat osteoarthritis. A conversation with your pet’s veterinarian is the best way to confirm which medication is right for your dog. In some cases, in which the pet doesn’t respond to other treatment options, Librela may be the best choice to alleviate debilitating arthritic pain.
Information from Zoetis about Librela: https://www.zoetispetcare.com/products/librela
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