Another New Treatment Option for Dogs With Allergic Dermatitis

Full drug information and a handout can be found at Plumbs.com (paid subscription required).

What is Tirnovetmab?

Tirnovetmab is a new option for treatment of allergic and atopic dermatitis in dogs.¹

Pharmacology of Tirnovetmab

Tirnovetmab is a caninized immunoglobulin G (IgG) monoclonal antibody (mAb) that neutralizes  interleukin-31 (IL-31), thereby disrupting the itch signal that is activated in dogs with allergic and atopic dermatitis.

Contraindications of Tirnovetmab

Tirnovetmab should be considered contraindicated in dogs hypersensitive to it. This drug should not be used in any other species. Tirnovetmab has not been tested in pregnant, lactating, or breeding dogs. 

Adverse Effects of Tirnovetmab

Tirnovetmab appears to be well tolerated. Lethargy (≈14%) was the most commonly reported adverse effect.² Injection site reactions may occur but are usually mild and transient.² Edema, pigmentation disorders, masses, and UTIs have also been observed.² Elevated liver enzymes have been reported, and increased hematocrit occurred in up to ≈15% of dogs but was determined to not be clinically relevant.²

Additional Information & Instructions 

Tirnovetmab is available in 4 vial sizes; dogs weighing >40 lb (18.1 kg) require multiple vials per dose.

A comprehensive look at how to manage allergic dermatitis  or atopic dermatitis is offered by the experts at Standards of Care (paid subscription only).