Intervet gets first canine insulin

Intervet received Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for the first canine insulin to treat diabetic dogs, Vetsulin.The approval was announced at presstime, and the company reports the formal product launch is slated for Julys American Veterinary Medical Association meeting in Philadelphia. Product will be available to veterinarians late this summer, Dr. Karen Duncan, senior technical services specialist for Intervet tells DVM Newsmagazine.Vetsulin is a porcine insulin zinc suspension used to improve the clinical signs of diabetes in dogs. Clinical signs include excessive thirst, urination and appetite, and weight loss despite good appetite. The prescription product has already been approved in 20 countries including the United Kingdom.FDA reports that veterinarians determine the initial treatment dose based on a dogs weight and then use various tests to determine the optimum dosage. Maintenance administration of the insulin may be done by pet owners at home, FDA reports.

For fastest response call (800) 441-8272 or visit the Web site at www.vetsulin.com.