A medication, with the possibility of extending the lifespans of dogs weighing over 40 pounds and contribute to their overall health, is close to being approved by the United States Federal Drug Administration.(FDA)
According to the FDA, the drug, LOY-001, is being developed by Loyal, a biotechnology company based in San Francisco. The FDA has so far approved the Reasonable Expectation of Effectiveness section of the company’s application for a conditional approval. What this means is the FDA believes the drug is capable of extending the lifespans of larger dogs.
the FDA based its decision on data loyal submitted that included studies showing LOY-001’s ability to reduce levels of key growth hormone insulin growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and the beneficial impact on functional outcomes in dogs.
Loyal
In an article by the New York Times, larger dogs generally have a lifespan of 8 to 12 years. Specifically referenced were a Bernese Mountain dog, who typically live for 7 to 10 years and a Great Dane who lives 8 to 10 years. Loyal has outlined that the veterinarian administer the medication at intervals of three to six months. The drug is meant to be a “long acting injectable.” The article does not specify how long the drug could extend the lives of the large dogs, nor has it mentioned the cost.
It is expected the drug will be available in 2026, according to a Loyal spokesman, Tim Smith. The study involved 452 ogs of 84 different breeds, aged 2 to 18. The company aims to claim at least one year of healthy life span extension.
More updates to follow.
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