FDA Approves First Drug Treating Noise Aversion and Separation Anxiety in Dogs
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Tessie (tasipimidine oral solution), marking the first approval of a drug treating both noise aversion and separation anxiety in dogs. The prescription oral solution, sponsored by Finland-based Orion Corporation, works by activating alpha-2 adrenoceptor receptors to reduce fight-or-flight responses. Tessie is administered one hour before a triggering event and can be dosed up to three times within 24 hours.
FDA Conditionally Approves Drug for Canine Neurologic Condition
Pegasus Laboratories, under its PRN Pharmacal brand, has received FDA conditional approval for Liavium-CA1 (pregabalin chewable tablets), the first pregabalin product approved for veterinary use. The medication is indicated for the management of pain and clinical signs associated with Chiari-like malformation and syringomyelia (CM/SM) in dogs. CM/SM is a chronic and painful neurologic condition common in small and toy breeds, particularly Cavalier King Charles spaniels, whose symptoms are frequently mistaken for anxiety or behavioral issues. Liavium-CA1 is a Schedule V controlled substance available by prescription in three tablet strengths.
Elanco Launches Canine Allergic Dermatitis Monoclonal Antibody
Elanco Animal Health has announced a phased launch of Befrena, an anti-IL-31 injectable monoclonal antibody for canine allergic and atopic dermatitis. The treatment, which was approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture late last year, neutralizes IL-31, a cytokine that triggers itch signals, and begins controlling symptoms within 24 hours. According to the company, Befrena offers a six- to eight-week dosing interval and carries no age or weight restrictions.
VetSnap Launches Compact Locker for DEA-Compliant Storage
VetSnap has introduced its 2-Bay Smart Locker, designed for veterinary practices with smaller inventories or tighter spaces. The compact unit — 17 inches wide and 30 pounds — joins the company’s existing 6-Bay and 14-Bay lineup and integrates with VetSnap’s digital logbook for real-time controlled substance tracking. The product is expected to ship this summer.
Elanco Settles Antitrust Lawsuit
Elanco Animal Health and several major pet retailers have agreed to a $9.275 million class action settlement over allegations that Elanco paid retailers — including Chewy, Petco, and PetSmart — to exclude generic competitors to its Advantix II and Advantage II flea and tick products. Elanco’s share of the settlement totals $6.75 million. As part of the agreement, Elanco is barred from offering exclusive discounts on Advantix for five years. The settlement resolves two consolidated federal lawsuits filed in the Southern District of Indiana.
Bond, Hill’s Earn FDA No-Objection for Fermentation-Derived Lamb Protein
Bond Pet Foods and Hill’s Pet Nutrition have received an FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine Letter of No Objection for Bond’s Lamb Protein Yeast ingredient, clearing it for use in dog food at up to 15% inclusion. The GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) designation follows a six-month longitudinal feeding study and marks the first ingredient from the Hill’s-Bond collaboration to complete FDA review. Developed through precision fermentation, the ingredient offers a complete amino acid profile comparable to conventional lamb protein. The companies are now pursuing FDA clearance for feline use.