Merial launches pain relief treatment Supleneo Flex

Merial has announced the launch of Supleneo Flex, a new pain relief treatment for dogs suffering from osteoarthritis or that have recently had surgery.

The new product has been released this month in the UK, Germany and Italy and utilises gamma-tocopherol – a natural tocopherol that inhibits an enzyme related to pain – as well as ingredients with antioxidant qualities.

Supleneo Flex's launch represents Merial's entry into the lucrative pet nutraceutical market, a decision that was taken after extensive product research and sourcing of optimum ingredients and manufacturing arrangements.

As a result, the new product – which complements its existing pain therapy Previcox – has been able to meet regulatory requirements and deliver superior efficacy in clinical studies compared to competitors.

Vincent Krogmann, director for pet pharmaceuticals and global strategic marketing at Merial, said: "Supleneo Flex was developed by Merial research and development specifically for dogs; it is not an off-the-shelf product."

Last month, the company announced the US availability of Certifect, a new treatment for tick-borne diseases among domestic animals.