TVM has launched DogStem, a ready-to-use stem cell treatment for dogs, indicated for mild to severe canine osteoarthritis of the hip and elbow.

DogStem has been shown to be effective, reducing pain and lameness and improving mobility and quality of life for three months to over twelve months following a single injection1,2. 

In a prospective, randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial of DogStem, results showed that2:

  • 63% of dogs showed a clinically relevant improvement in force-plate gait analysis eight weeks after treatment
  • 77% had an improved orthopaedic examination by week eight
  • 60% of owners reported improvement in walking, 27% in playing with other dogs and 42% reported reduced stiffness after sleeping, 12-18 months after administration
  • 65% of owners considered the treatment improved their pet’s quality of life eight weeks after treatment
  • 59% reported the treatment’s effects lasted longer than six months

TVM highlights how DogStem simplifies the process and reduces the cost of using stem cell therapy in practice because unlike previous therapies, it does not require require a surgical harvesting procedure to be carried out under general anaesthetic.

Helen Harrison, DogStem Technical Vet and Product Manager said: "Osteoarthritis is one of the most common diseases seen in veterinary practices and is challenging to manage.

"Conventional medical treatments typically address the symptoms rather than the underlying pathological processes.

"At the same time, local treatment options that slow progression of osteoarthritis have been limited and surgical interventions aren’t always possible or may be unrewarding.

"We’re delighted to be able to offer vets DogStem®, a stem cell product with a strong evidence base across numerous mobility and quality of life parameters.’

DogStem can be ordered from NVS, or direct from: www.dogstem.co.uk 

References

  1. DogStem suspension for injection for dogs SPC: https://www.vmd.defra.gov.uk/productinformationdatabase/product/A012850 
  2. Punzón, E., et al. (2022). Equine umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells demonstrate safety and efficacy in the treatment of canine osteoarthritis: a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

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