Fuzapladib

What is fuzapladib? 

Fuzapladib sodium (Panoquell®-CA1) is an immunomodulating medication used to manage the signs associated with acute canine pancreatitis. This medication is for use in dogs only. 

This medication is currently conditionally approved for use by the FDA. Before full approval is granted, more information on the safety and efficacy of this medication will need to be obtained.

How is fuzapladib given?

Fuzapladib is given by intravenous (into the vein) injection by your veterinarian in-clinic. Improvement in the signs associated with acute pancreatitis may be seen within 24 hours. 

What if a dose is missed?

This medication will be administered by your veterinarian. It is designed to be given once daily for three days. If your dog is not hospitalized during that time, follow your veterinarian’s instructions.

Are there any potential side effects?

Potential side effects include:

• regurgitation, vomiting or nausea
• trouble breathing and coughing
• diarrhea
• appetite loss
• jaundice (yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes)

Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice anything out of the ordinary and ensure all follow-up lab work and exams are completed as directed by your veterinarian.

This medication is expected to wear off within 24 hours. 

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

Fuzapladib SHOULD NOT BE USED in dogs that are:

• allergic or sensitive to it 
• less than six months old

Fuzapladib has not been studied in the following groups and so SHOULD NOT BE USED or SHOULD BE USED WITH CAUTION in dogs:

• who are breeding, pregnant, or nursing
• who are on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs, meloxicam, robenacoxib)
• who have pre-existing diseases such as heart disease, liver failure, or kidney disease

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

At this time, drug interactions have not been reported; however, fuzapladib does have the potential to increase the blood levels of other medications. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) your pet takes.

Although not specifically evaluated during the safety study for this medication, the following medications were used simultaneously with no apparent adverse effects: pain medications (excluding NSAIDs), anti-vomiting medications, anti-parasite medications, vaccinations, and medications used to treat well-controlled, pre-existing conditions.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

Before starting fuzapladib, your veterinarian may run blood and urine tests to make a diagnosis of pancreatitis. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for any follow-up testing and recheck examinations. If your dog is being treated as an outpatient (at home), monitor their appetite and activity levels closely and watch for any of the adverse effects described above. Report any concerns or changes to your veterinarian.

How do I store fuzapladib?

• As this medication is only licensed for use by a veterinarian, it will be stored at the veterinary clinic.
• Unopened vials can be stored at room temperature, between 59°F and 77°F (15°C and 25°C).
• Store reconstituted medication in the refrigerator, between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C), and use any reconstituted medication within 28 days. 

What should I do in case of an emergency?

Call your veterinary office immediately if you suspect an adverse reaction to the medication. If they are unavailable, follow their directions for contacting an emergency facility.