Zoetis Inc. today announced that Health Canada has approved Lenivia® (izenivetmab injection) for the treatment of pain associated with osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs. Lenivia represents a novel monoclonal antibody therapy, developed over a decade of rigorous scientific research, designed to improve mobility and reduce chronic pain in dogs suffering from OA.
In a nine-month field study, dogs treated with a single injection of Lenivia demonstrated significant improvements in mobility and decreased pain. With its unique mechanism of binding to nerve growth factor (NGF)—a key mediator of pain and inflammation—Lenivia provides effective pain relief for up to three months per injection, offering both pets and owners a convenient, long-acting solution.
Understanding the Significance of OA Pain in Dogs
Osteoarthritis is a chronic, progressive joint disease characterized by inflammation, cartilage degradation, and reduced joint function, which often results in significant pain and decreased mobility. While OA cannot be cured, its symptoms can be managed to improve quality of life for affected dogs.
Studies suggest that up to 40 percent of dogs, regardless of age or breed, may experience OA-related pain at some point in their lives. Chronic pain can impact a dog’s movement, sleep, behavior, and social interactions, affecting overall well-being and the human-animal bond. Addressing OA pain is therefore critical not only for the animal’s comfort but also for maintaining their daily activity and quality of life.
“As the leader in animal health innovation and a pioneer in veterinary monoclonal antibodies, our team at Zoetis is committed to understanding the unique biology of each species,” said Rob Polzer, Ph.D., Executive Vice President and President of Research and Development at Zoetis. “The approval of Lenivia by Health Canada marks the world’s first long-acting monoclonal antibody to alleviate OA pain in dogs for a full three months, offering a meaningful improvement in mobility and overall quality of life.”
Advancing Veterinary Care Through Innovation
Zoetis continues to lead in the advancement of animal care worldwide, supported by a robust pipeline of innovative therapies driven by lifecycle innovation, geographic expansion, and disruptive research. Lenivia joins Librela® (bedinvetmab injection) in Zoetis’ growing portfolio of OA therapies for dogs. Both products target NGF; however, Lenivia differentiates itself through a distinct binding site on NGF, enabling longer-lasting pain relief and further enhancing therapeutic convenience.
“Lenivia is our first long-acting OA therapy for dogs, designed to improve mobility and overall well-being while offering practical benefits to pet owners,” said Richard Goldstein, DVM, DACVIM, DECVIM-CA, Global Chief Medical Officer and Head of Medical Affairs at Zoetis. “Pet owners can bring their dogs in for an injection once every three months, reducing the need for frequent veterinary visits while maintaining consistent pain management. This represents a significant step forward in providing veterinarians with innovative tools to enhance the quality of life for animals under their care.”
Zoetis first introduced the world’s initial monoclonal antibody therapy for OA pain in dogs more than two years ago in Canada. The launch of Lenivia expands this category, reinforcing Zoetis’ commitment to delivering advanced, evidence-based therapies to veterinarians and pet owners. By addressing unmet medical needs, Zoetis continues to transform the management of chronic pain in companion animals.
Commitment to Pets and Pet Owners
Lenivia’s approval underscores Zoetis’ dedication to improving animal welfare through science-driven innovation. By combining cutting-edge antibody technology with a deep understanding of canine biology, Lenivia provides a meaningful solution for a widespread and often under-recognized problem in veterinary care.
“OA pain can significantly reduce a dog’s quality of life, and effective, long-lasting solutions have been limited until now,” said Dr. Polzer. “With Lenivia, veterinarians can offer dogs a therapy that not only alleviates pain but also supports improved mobility, behavior, and overall wellness—benefiting both pets and their families.”
As part of its global strategy, Zoetis plans to continue expanding access to Lenivia, further supporting veterinarians in the management of OA pain and strengthening its leadership in veterinary innovation. This milestone reinforces the company’s ongoing mission to develop therapies that improve the lives of animals worldwide.
About Lenivia
Lenivia is a monoclonal antibody therapy that binds to nerve growth factor to reduce NGF’s effects. Lenivia is indicated for the alleviation of pain associated with osteoarthritis in dogs. Lenivia is administered subcutaneously once every three months. Lenivia should not be used in dogs with known hypersensitivity to izenivetmab, or breeding, pregnant or lactating dogs, or dogs less than 12 months of age. The following clinical signs have been reported in dogs receiving Lenivia: balance problems, weakness or trouble standing, decreased appetite, vomiting or diarrhea, drinking more and urinating more.
