What is atinvicitinib?
Atinvicitinib (brand name Numelvi®) is a medication used to control pruritus (itching) associated with allergic dermatitis in dogs at least 6 months of age and weighing more than 4.4 pounds (2 kg). It is labeled for use in dogs only.
How do I give my pet atinvicitinib?
- Atinvicitinib comes in tablet form.
- Tablets are given orally (by mouth).
- Give atinvicitinib with food.
- Give atinvicitinib to your pet for the entire time prescribed by your veterinarian, even if it appears that your pet is feeling better.
- Wash your hands with soap and water immediately after handling tablets.
This medication should start to take effect within 2 to 4 hours, although full effects may not be noticeable right away.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then wait the recommended time as prescribed by your veterinarian for the next dose. Do not give the pet two doses at once.
Are there any potential side effects from atinvicitinib?
Atinvicitinib may cause the following side effects:
- Lack of appetite and/or energy
- Vomiting, diarrhea
- Ear infections (otitis externa), other infections
- Abnormal blood test results, including:
- Leukopenia (low white blood cells)
- Neutropenia (low neutrophils)
- Eosinopenia (low eosinophils)
- Monocytopenia (low monocytes)
- Lymphocytosis (elevated lymphocytes)54
- Elevated ALT and AST
- Elevated SDMA
- Elevated cholesterol
New cancers (benign and malignant) have been reported in dogs treated with medications in the same class as atinvicitinib (JAK inhibitors). These cancers have not been seen in trials of atinvicitinib. The following reactions are rare, but if they occur, contact your veterinarian immediately:
- An allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face
- Fever, severe lack of energy, weakness, pale gums
Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment. Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
DO NOT USE atinvicitinib in:
- Dogs that are allergic to any component of the drug
- Dogs that are breeding, pregnant, or nursing
- Dogs with severe infections and/or neoplasia
- Dogs that are younger than 6 months
- Dogs that weigh less than 4.4 pounds (2 kg)
USE WITH CAUTION in:
- Dogs that have had recurrent demodicosis
- Dogs that are currently taking other immunosuppressive medications (e.g., cyclosporine, prednisone)
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
There are no known drug interactions; however, based on concerns related to other JAK inhibitors, your veterinarian may use certain medications WITH CAUTION when given with atinvicitinib, including:
- Cyclosporine
- Glucocorticoids
- Immunosuppressive agents (e.g., chemotherapeutic agents)
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.
Is any monitoring needed with this medication?
- Atinvicitinib may increase susceptibility to infections, including demodicosis and infection between the toes (interdigital furunculosis).
- Your veterinarian may assess baseline blood work before starting this medication and may monitor blood work throughout treatment.
- Your veterinarian will schedule follow-up visits for monitoring. In this case, follow your veterinarian’s directions.
- At home, monitor for any abnormal changes. If any occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.
How do I store atinvicitinib?
- Store at room temperature (59°F–86°F or 15°C–30°C).
- Keep medication out of reach of children and pets.
What should I do in case of emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Adverse effects should be reported to your veterinarian and to the FDA or Health Canada.
