Personal Injury Law

Canine Cancer Drug Approved By FDA

By Chrissie Cole

Canine Cancer Drug Approved

One in four dogs dies of cancer. Many more suffer its terrible affects. Now, for the first time, a drug for the treatment of cancer in dogs has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Until now, dogs diagnosed with cancer were given human drugs, but Palladia, or toceranib phosphate, made by Pfizer, received FDA approval for mast-cell tumors in dogs.

In clinical trials Palladia was shown to shrink cutaneous mast-cell tumors, which are responsible for one-in-five skin tumors seen in dogs.

Mast cell tumors, which appear as lumps on the skin often spread to other areas, are the second most common form of cancer in dogs of the estimated 1.2 million cases of canine cancer reported each year.

For years, veterinarians have been treating dogs for a variety of different cancers. Until now, they have used chemotherapy drugs developed for humans that have not been tested on dogs. Palladium, not intended for use in humans, is the first drug to prove safe and effective in canines.

In clinical trials presented to the agency, 60 percent of dogs treated with the drug had their skin tumors shrink, stop growing or disappear all together, according to a news release from Pfizer Animal Health.

Pfizer made the announcement to veterinarians attending the 2009 American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) Forum and Canadian Veterinary Medical Association Convention.

Speaking at the conference, George Fennell, vice president, Companion Animal Division, Pfizer Animal Health, said Palladia won't be available until early 2010. In the mean time, pet caregivers should discuss canine cancer treatment options with their veterinarians who may refer the dog to a specialist for treatment with the new drug.

About Pfizer Animal Health

Pfizer Animal Health, one of six business units of Pfizer Inc, is a world leader in discovering and developing innovative animal prescription medicines and vaccines, investing an estimated $300 million annually. #

Full post as published by InjuryBoard on June 04, 2009 (boomark / email).