Befrena is a sterile liquid injectable caninized monoclonal antibody (mAb) that has been shown to be effective for the treatment of dogs against allergic dermatitis and canine atopic dermatitis (CAD).

Befrena is a caninized monoclonal antibody (mAb) that specifically targets and neutralizes canine interleukin-31 (IL-31), a key cytokine involved in sending itch signals to the brain. This targeted action provides relief from allergic itch by blocking a primary signal pathway, without broadly suppressing the immune system. Watch MOA Video.

Clinical studies demonstrated that Befrena provides significant itch relief in the majority of dogs for 6 to 8 weeks following a single subcutaneous injection. The timing of subsequent injections may be adjusted based on the individual patient's clinical response and needs.

Befrena offers a rapid onset of clinical effect achieved within 24 hours.

Aseptically withdraw the full volume from the appropriate vial(s) according to the dosing chart. Repeat administration every 6-8 weeks or as needed in individual patients based on clinical assessment and owner’s feedback on the dog’s itch status 

Befrena was shown to be safe and well-tolerated in clinical studies, with adverse events comparable to placebo. Common side effects observed included dermatitis and bacterial skin infection, which were also prevalent in the placebo group. Befrena can be safely used in dogs of all ages, and has been safely used in a Field Safety study with a wide variety of concomitant medications such as allergen-specific immunotherapy, analgesics, anti-inflammatory drugs, antihistamines, antimicrobials, antimycotics, antiseptics and disinfectants, ectoparasiticides, endectocides, immunosuppressants, other dermatological preparations, and other antipruritics, such as ilunocitinib, oclacitinib, and cyclosporine. It is always recommended to review a patient's complete medication history with the owner. It has not been tested in pregnant animals.

mAbs have the potential to induce host-derived antibodies, termed anti-drug antibodies (ADAs) that may or may not alter effectiveness or may result in increased immune-mediated adverse reactions.

In field studies, Befrena significantly reduced allergic pruritus and clinical signs associated with allergic and atopic dermatitis for up to 8 weeks. Success measures, including validated scales like Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index-4 (CADESI-4), owner assessments including Pruritus Visual Analogue Scale (PVAS), Pruritus Categorical Assessment Score (PCAS), and Owner-Reported Global Assessment of Treatment Efficacy (OGATE), showed sustained improvement.

Both Befrena and Cytopoint are injectable monoclonal antibodies that specifically target IL-31 to provide relief from allergic itch. A key differentiator for Befrena is its proven efficacy for 6 to 8 weeks in the majority of dogs.

As each dog's response to Befrena is individual, it is important for owners to monitor their dog's allergic itch closely. If clinical signs of itch (e.g., frequent scratching, licking, chewing) return before the next scheduled dose, clients should be advised to contact your clinic to discuss adjusting the Befrena injection plan to ensure optimal and continuous itch control. Befrena is labeled to be dosed every 6-8 weeks or as needed in individual patients, and it has been shown to be safe when administered every 4 weeks.

Befrena does not contain preservatives and should be stored refrigerated at 2° to 8°C (35 to 46°F). Do not freeze. Each vial is for single use only, and any unused contents should be discarded appropriately. Do not mix Befrena with other products in the same syringe.