The effect of anti-nerve growth factor monoclonal antibodies on the clinical signs of degenerative joint disease in cats

TL;DR

Feline anti-nerve growth factor antibodies may reduce joint pain and improve mobility in cats with degenerative joint disease.

Contribution

Frunevetmab shows moderate evidence of effectiveness in reducing pain and improving mobility in cats with joint disease.

Findings

Frunevetmab reduced pain and improved mobility in cats compared to placebo.

Multiple studies showed consistent results across different treatment schedules.

Further research is needed to confirm results with objective outcome measures.

Abstract

Are felinised anti-nerve growth factor monoclonal antibodies (frunevetmab) effective at reducing the clinical signs of pain and immobility in cats with degenerative joint disease when compared with no treatment?

Treatment.

Three peer-reviewed randomised controlled trial treatment studies, two of which were pilot studies.

Moderate.

All three studies concluded that there was a statistical reduction in pain and an improvement in mobility in the groups administered frunevetmab, when compared to the groups administered the placebo.

There is moderate evidence suggesting that the administration of frunevetmab by injection led to a reduction in pain and an increase in mobility. Injections were given at day 0; day 0 and 28, or day 0, 28 and 56 depending on the study. Further research should be conducted to ensure repeatability, involving more objectively measured outcomes to reduce the reliance on subjective measures which are more likely to have associated bias.