Anti-nerve growth factor monoclonal antibodies – What is the evidence?
Anti-nerve growth factor monoclonal antibodies – What is the evidence?
‘In the Spotlight’ features bring together collections of published papers on topics of interest and importance to the veterinary professions. Papers are chosen for relevance and accessibility, with the full text of articles either being available through the RCVS Knowledge Library, on open access or from other publications to which a significant number of veterinary professionals are likely to have access. This means that there may be relevant evidence that is not included.
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Published 10 September 2025
The introduction of species-specific monoclonal antibodies (mab) targeting nerve growth factor to the veterinary market (Bedinvetmab- product name Librela and Frunevetmab- product name Solensia) has provided a novel approach to the management of pain associated with osteoarthritis. However, effective management of pain and arthritis often benefits from multimodal treatment.
- Monteiro, B.P. et al. (2023), 2022 WSAVA guidelines for the recognition, assessment and treatment of pain. Journal of Small Animal Practice, 64 (4), pp. 177-254. https://doi.org/10.1111/jsap.13566
- Gruen, M.E. et al. (2022) 2022 AAHA pain management guidelines for dogs and cats. Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association, 58 (2), pp. 55-76. https://doi.org/10.5326/JAAHA-MS-7292
- Steagull, P.V. et al. (2021 ) 2022 ISFM consensus guidelines on the management of acute pain in cats. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 24 (1), pp. 4-30. https://doi.org/10.1177/1098612X211066268
- Cachon, T. et al. (2023) COAST Development Group’s international consensus guidelines for the treatment of canine osteoarthritis. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 10. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2023.1137888
This In the Spotlight feature will bring together key references from the published evidence relating to the safety and efficacy of these products to enable you to discuss the options with your clients and support informed decision making. The first section will provide links to a small number of papers to provide background information on monoclonal antibodies and nerve growth factor. This will be followed by sections presenting published evidence on efficacy and safety alongside further information that may help you to understand this evidence in context.
- Background
- Efficacy
- Canine
- Feline
- Safety
- Librela
- Solensia
- Adverse drug reaction reporting
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