US FDA Approves Breakthrough Pruritus Treatment for Dogs

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Numelvi, a new once-daily treatment for pruritus in dogs. This approval comes alongside VMD approval in the UK and follows European Commission approval last year.

Numelvi is described as the first and only second-generation Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor indicated for the control of pruritus associated with allergic dermatitis. It is suitable for dogs aged six months and older, making it the only medication in its class approved for dogs that young.

By being highly selective for the JAK1 enzyme, Numelvi inhibits the main driver of itching and inflammation in allergic dermatitis while minimizing interference with beneficial immune functions of other JAK enzymes. In the US, Numelvi is available in four tablet sizes, including one suitable for dogs as small as 2kg.

Christine McKinney, senior professional services veterinarian of dermatology at Merck Animal Health, said: “By reducing chronic itching, Numelvi can help prevent the chewing, licking and scratching that leads to skin damage, infections, pain and poor sleep in affected dogs.”