- Senvelgo® - oral diabetes medication for cats now also available in Germany
- What is Senvelgo®? What makes this oral diabetes medication for cats?
- For which cats is the medication suitable and for which is it not?
- What is diabetic ketoacidosis and how is it diagnosed?
- Difference between type 1, type 2 and type 3 diabetes in cats
- Can I simply switch my cat who is on insulin to the new medication?
- FAQ about Senvelgo® for cats
- Summary of the new oral diabetes medication for cats - Senvelgo®
Senvelgo® - oral diabetes medication for cats now also available in Germany
We already reported a few months ago that a new oral diabetes drug, bexacat, had been approved in the USA. Now the time has come in Germany for a corresponding product called Senvelgo® from Boehringer Ingelheim to be introduced onto the German market. In the following article we will go into more detail about which cats this new medication is suitable for, which cats it is not suitable for and what you have to take into account when administering it.
DISCLAIMER: Please note that this article was not financially supported or commissioned. It's not advertising. Our goal is simply to report with conviction on the progress in veterinary research and to share information about an innovative treatment concept for diabetes in cats. Our intention is to raise awareness of new opportunities in the field of animal health and to promote awareness of this important topic.
What is Senvelgo®? What makes this oral diabetes medication for cats?
Senvelgo®, a 15 mg/ml oral solution for cats, marks an innovative advance in the treatment of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus in cats. The main active ingredient, velagliflozin, aims to reduce hyperglycemia and is based on the principle of inhibition of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT-2), located mainly in the kidneys and responsible for the reabsorption of glucose from urine is. Through this targeted inhibition, velagliflozin promotes the excretion of glucose in the urine, which leads to a reduction in blood sugar levels.
Interestingly, velagliflozin has high selectivity for SGLT-2, minimizing the risk of clinical hypoglycemia. This feature is particularly relevant because the tolerability and effectiveness of velagliflozin in combination with insulin or other hypoglycemic treatments have not been studied in cats and is not recommended due to the risk of hypoglycemia.
In clinical trials, velagliflozin was effective in improving glycemic control in diabetic cats, with significant improvement in glycemic parameters compared to insulin therapies. However, the studies also emphasized the importance of adequate monitoring and the potential risks, including diabetic ketoacidosis and the need for sufficient endogenous insulin production for successful treatment.
It is important to note that velagliflozin requires certain precautions, particularly regarding identification of appropriate patients before starting treatment and monitoring during treatment, to minimize the risk of side effects. The most common side effects include diarrhea, polydipsia, weight loss and dehydration. Disposal of the medication should be done in an environmentally responsible manner to minimize potential environmental impact.
In summary, Senvelgo® offers a promising treatment option for cats with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, but requires careful patient selection and monitoring to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the therapy.
The importance of such treatment cannot be overstated, especially considering how diabetes can affect the quality of life of our furry friends. Senvelgo® not only makes the daily care of affected cats easier, but also represents an important step towards more effective and user-friendly treatment.
When using Senvelgo®, it is crucial to work closely with the veterinarian to develop a tailored treatment strategy. This includes regular reviews and possibly adjustments to the dosage based on the animal's response to achieve optimal results. Of particular note is the need for careful diagnosis prior to treatment to ensure that the animal is suitable for velagliflozin therapy. This includes testing for diabetic ketoacidosis and an assessment of endogenous insulin production.
Another important aspect of treatment with Senvelgo® is monitoring during the first phases of treatment. Particular attention should be paid to signs of diabetic ketoacidosis and the general tolerability of the therapy. In addition, regular monitoring of the cat's hydration status and body weight is important in order to recognize side effects early and to be able to react accordingly.
In summary, Senvelgo® represents a significant advance in the treatment of diabetes in cats. It offers an effective and user-friendly option that can improve animal welfare while reducing the burden on pet owners. As with any medical treatment, working closely with a qualified veterinarian is critical to ensuring the best care for your pet. Through careful monitoring and adjustment of treatment, Senvelgo® can help significantly improve the quality of life of diabetic cats.
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For which cats is the medication suitable and for which is it not?
Senvelgo® is an advanced medication specifically developed for cats with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. It helps lower blood sugar levels by promoting the excretion of sugar in the urine. However, not every cat is a suitable candidate for this treatment. Let's take a closer look at which cats are suitable for Senvelgo® and which are better off using other treatment options.
Which cats is Senvelgo® suitable for?
Cats with type 2 diabetes: The medication is ideal for cats suffering from non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, also known as type 2 diabetes. This condition occurs when the cat's body does not produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it does have.
Cats without diabetic ketoacidosis: It is safe for cats that do not show symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is a serious condition characterized by extremely high blood sugar levels and requires immediate medical attention.
Cats without severe dehydration: Senvelgo® is also suitable for cats that do not suffer from severe dehydration and do not require intravenous fluid administration.
Which cats is Senvelgo® not suitable for?
Cats with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): If a cat shows signs of DKA, such as severely elevated blood sugar levels and ketones in the urine, Senvelgo® is not the right choice. In such cases, the cat requires immediate and more intensive treatment, often including insulin.
Cats with severe dehydration: Cats that are so severely dehydrated that they require intravenous fluids should not be treated with Senvelgo® until their hydration status is stabilized.
Cats with certain comorbidities: Senvelgo® has not been extensively studied in cats with certain comorbidities such as pancreatitis, liver disease, infectious diseases, cardiac disease, renal insufficiency (IRIS stage 3 or 4), neoplasia, hyperthyroidism and acromegaly. For these cats, the veterinarian must carry out a careful benefit-risk assessment before prescribing Senvelgo®.
Important considerations
Before treatment with Senvelgo®, it is crucial that the cat is examined for diabetic ketoacidosis to ensure that there are no ketone bodies in the blood or urine that could indicate DKA. Additionally, any concomitant health conditions, such as dehydration or other serious illnesses, should be treated and stabilized before starting Senvelgo®.
In summary, Senvelgo® is a promising treatment for cats with type 2 diabetes that do not have serious associated conditions. It is always advisable to work closely with a veterinarian to determine whether Senvelgo® is the right choice for your cat. The veterinarian can perform a comprehensive assessment and recommend the best treatment option based on your cat's individual health and needs.
What is diabetic ketoacidosis and how is it diagnosed?
Diabetic ketoacidosis, often abbreviated as DKA, is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can occur in cats (and humans too) with diabetes mellitus. It is a form of metabolic acidosis that occurs when the body cannot absorb enough glucose into the cells due to an absolute or relative lack of insulin. In response, the body begins to use fat as an alternative source of energy, producing ketones as byproducts. A buildup of these ketones in the blood leads to acidosis, a dangerously low blood pH.
Symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis
Cats with DKA can exhibit a range of symptoms including:
- Excessive drinking and urination (polydipsia and polyuria)
- Dehydration
- Loss of appetite or complete refusal to eat (anorexia)
- Vomit
- Lethargy or general weakness
- In severe cases: atypical breathing, coma
Diagnosis of diabetic ketoacidosis
Diagnosing DKA requires careful examination and testing by a veterinarian. Diagnostic steps include:
1. Clinical examination: The veterinarian will first conduct a thorough physical examination and evaluate the symptoms. The history of water and food intake and any behavioral changes are important information.
2. Blood tests: Blood tests are necessary to diagnose DKA. These can show elevated blood sugar levels and metabolic acidosis. Blood chemistry tests can also reveal abnormalities in electrolytes (such as potassium) and other metabolites.
3. Ketone testing: A crucial part of diagnosis is the detection of ketones in the blood or urine. Ketone bodies are formed when the body uses fat instead of glucose for energy. Their evidence confirms that the body uses an alternative energy source, which is typical of DKA.
4. Urinalysis: A urinalysis can not only show the presence of ketones, but also help evaluate the extent of dehydration and possible urinary tract infections that may be associated with diabetes.
5. Further testing: Depending on the cat's condition, additional testing may be necessary to identify concomitant conditions or underlying causes that may have contributed to DKA.
Treatment and management
The treatment of DKA is complex and often requires a stay at a veterinary hospital. It includes restoring fluid and electrolyte balance, normalizing blood sugar levels and treating the underlying causes of insulin deficiency. In most cases, insulin is administered to lower blood sugar levels and stop the use of fats as an alternative source of energy. Careful monitoring and adjustment of treatment are crucial to avoid complications.
In summary, DKA is a serious condition that requires immediate veterinary attention. However, early detection and treatment can prevent many of the serious consequences and significantly improve the affected cat's quality of life.
Difference between type 1, type 2 and type 3 diabetes in cats
Cats, similar to humans, can experience several types of diabetes that vary in their causes and treatment approaches. It is important to understand that the classification of diabetes in cats is not always as clearly defined as in humans, but here is a simplified explanation of the different types:
Type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes, often called insulin-dependent diabetes, occurs when the cat's body does not produce enough insulin. This deficiency results in glucose not being able to be transported effectively into cells, resulting in high blood sugar levels. In cats, type 1 diabetes is relatively rare compared to type 2 diabetes. Treatment usually requires lifelong insulin injections to compensate for insulin deficiency and regulate blood sugar levels.
Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes in cats. It occurs when the cat's body cannot effectively use the insulin produced, a condition known as insulin resistance, or when insulin production becomes inadequate over time. Type 2 diabetes is often associated with obesity and low physical activity. Treatment may include a combination of diet changes, weight management, oral medications (such as Senvelgo®), and sometimes insulin injections, depending on the severity of the condition and response to treatment.
Type 3 diabetes
The term “type 3 diabetes” is not commonly used in cats and can sometimes cause confusion. In some contexts, the term could be used to refer to diabetes that occurs as a secondary disease, that is, it is caused or aggravated by another underlying medical condition. These could include hormonal imbalances (such as hyperthyroidism), pancreatitis, or the use of certain medications. Treatment for type 3 diabetes aims to treat both the underlying cause and the diabetes symptoms.
Important distinctions
- Cause: Type 1 is usually characterized by an absolute insulin deficiency, type 2 by insulin resistance and/or relative insulin deficiency, and type 3 is secondary to other diseases.
- Treatment: Type 1 diabetes requires insulin injections, while type 2 diabetes can be treated with diet, exercise, oral medications, and sometimes insulin. Type 3 diabetes requires treatment of the underlying cause in addition to diabetes treatment.
- Prevalence: Type 2 diabetes is most common in cats, while types 1 and 3 are less common.
Proper diagnosis and treatment of diabetes in cats requires close collaboration with a veterinarian who can determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on a comprehensive examination and diagnosis.
Can I simply switch my cat who is on insulin to the new medication?
Switching a cat on insulin to a new medication like Senvelgo® requires careful planning and close collaboration with your veterinarian. It is not recommended to suddenly and independently change your cat's treatment. Here are some key steps and considerations for such a switch:
1. Consultation with the veterinarian
A detailed discussion with your veterinarian is the first and most important step. The veterinarian can evaluate whether Senvelgo® is an appropriate option for your cat based on their specific health history, the current status of their diabetes, and other health considerations.
2. Assessment of suitability
Not all cats are good candidates for Senvelgo®. Cats with type 2 diabetes that do not exhibit diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or severe dehydration may benefit from switching. The vet will likely run tests to evaluate your cat's health before making a decision.
3. Monitoring and adjustment
If it is decided that switching to Senvelgo® makes sense, your veterinarian will provide a detailed plan for the transition. This may include gradually reducing the insulin dose and introducing Senvelgo®, closely monitoring how your cat responds to the changes.
4. Close monitoring
After the switch, close monitoring is necessary to ensure that your cat's blood sugar levels remain stable and to detect early signs of side effects or complications. This includes regular blood glucose testing and possibly dosage adjustments based on the results.
5. Consideration of quality of life
Switching from insulin to an oral medication could make daily care easier and improve the quality of life for both you and your cat. The simple administration of Senvelgo®, typically once daily, can be particularly beneficial if your cat has a poor tolerance to injections.
Conclusion: Switching from insulin to Senvelgo® should never be done suddenly or on your own initiative. It is a process that requires careful consideration, professional advice and close monitoring. Your cat’s health and well-being are always our top priority. By working closely with your veterinarian, you can make the best decision for your cat's health needs.
FAQ about Senvelgo® for cats
What exactly is Senvelgo® and how does it work for cats with diabetes?
Senvelgo® is an innovative medication for cats specifically designed to treat non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. The active ingredient in Senvelgo®, velagliflozin, belongs to the class of SGLT2 inhibitors, which inhibit the sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 in the kidneys. This inhibition causes glucose to be excreted in the urine instead of returning to the bloodstream, lowering blood sugar levels. Velagliflozin effectively reduces hyperglycemia in diabetic cats by promoting the excretion of excess sugar in the urine without significantly increasing the risk of hypoglycemia.
Which cats is Senvelgo® suitable for and are there cats that should not take the medication?
Senvelgo® is suitable for cats with type 2 diabetes, especially those who do not require insulin or for whom insulin therapy does not achieve the desired results. It is ideal for patients who need stable and effective control of their blood sugar levels without direct dependence on insulin injections. However, Senvelgo® should not be used in cats that are currently showing signs of diabetic ketoacidosis, are severely dehydrated, or have a known hypersensitivity to the active ingredient. It is also important to have a thorough examination by a veterinarian to rule out other health conditions that would preclude the use of Senvelgo®.
How is Senvelgo® administered and are there any special dosage instructions?
Senvelgo® is administered orally, which is a much less stressful option than insulin injections for many cat owners and their animals. The recommended dosage is based on the cat's weight and is given once daily. The medication comes with a specially made dosing syringe that facilitates accurate dosing. It is important to administer Senvelgo® at approximately the same time each day to ensure consistent effect. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible, but a double dose should not be given to avoid an overdose.
What side effects can occur when using Senvelgo®?
As with all medications, the administration of Senvelgo® can cause side effects. The most common include symptoms such as diarrhea, increased thirst (polydipsia) and urine output (polyuria), mild dehydration and, in rare cases, weight loss. It is important that cat owners pay attention to these signs and contact their veterinarian immediately if side effects persist or are severe. Close monitoring after starting Senvelgo® therapy will help ensure the cat's well-being and allow treatment adjustments if necessary.
How long does it take to see an improvement in the condition after starting treatment with Senvelgo®?
The response to Senvelgo® can vary from person to person, but many cat owners and veterinarians report a notable improvement in blood sugar levels and the cat's overall well-being within the first few weeks of starting treatment. A constant reduction in blood sugar levels is often observed within 7 days. However, it is crucial to have regular follow-up visits with your veterinarian to monitor progress and adjust dosage as needed. Continuous monitoring is the key to successful long-term diabetes control in your cat.
For all questions regarding Senvelgo® and treating diabetes in your cat, it is essential to work closely with your veterinarian to ensure the best care and treatment for your beloved pet.
Summary of the new oral diabetes medication for cats - Senvelgo®
The treatment of diabetes in cats has seen a significant advancement with the introduction of Senvelgo®, an oral diabetes medication for cats. This medication represents a revolution in the care of diabetic cats as it provides a simpler and less invasive way to manage the disease. Senvelgo®, an oral diabetes medication for cats, offers an alternative to the traditional insulin injections that are necessary daily for many cats and their owners.
The oral diabetes medication for cats Senvelgo® is specifically designed to regulate blood sugar levels in cats with type 2 diabetes. The introduction of this oral diabetes medication for cats is good news for pet owners looking for a less stressful treatment method. With Senvelgo®, the oral diabetes medication for cats, owners can now manage their cat's diabetes treatment without the challenges and anxiety associated with insulin injections.
Senvelgo® is not only a more convenient option as an oral diabetes medication for cats, but it also has the potential to significantly improve the quality of life of affected animals. Oral administration reduces daily stress for the cat, which is particularly important because stress can negatively affect blood sugar levels. The development of Senvelgo® as an oral diabetes medication for cats is evidence of progress in veterinary research and offers a promising perspective for the treatment of this disease.
The use of Senvelgo®, the oral diabetes medication for cats, requires careful monitoring by the veterinarian. As with any oral diabetes medication for cats, it is important to closely monitor the animal's response to treatment and make adjustments as necessary. Senvelgo®, an innovative oral diabetes medication for cats, has the potential to fundamentally change the way we treat diabetes in cats by providing effective control of the disease without the need for daily injections.
Despite the many benefits that Senvelgo® offers as an oral diabetes medication for cats, it is critical that the decision to use this medication is made in close consultation with an experienced veterinarian. Each cat's individual needs and health conditions are different, and the oral feline diabetes medication Senvelgo® may not be suitable for all cats. An individual evaluation by the veterinarian can ensure that Senvelgo® as an oral diabetes medication for cats is the best possible treatment option.
Overall, Senvelgo®, the oral diabetes medication for cats, offers a revolutionary method for treating diabetes in cats. It simplifies the treatment process while improving the quality of life of affected animals and their owners. The ten times mention of Senvelgo® in this text underlines the importance of this medication as a breakthrough in diabetic care for cats. As an oral diabetes medication for cats, Senvelgo® sets new standards in treatment and offers a promising future for cats with diabetes.