Boehringer Ingelheim launches idiopathic epilepsy drug for dogs

Boehringer Ingelheim has announced the launch of Pexion, a novel anti-epileptic tablet therapy for dogs.

This new treatment for canine idiopathic epilepsy contains the active ingredient imepitoin and is the first new molecule for this disease area in a number of years, utilising a highly targeted mode of action to suppress seizures.

It has been shown to start working within a few hours and can reach a steady state within three days, making it easier than ever to rapidly stabilise pets affected by this condition.

Estimates suggest that canine epilepsy affects around five percent of dogs, with young purebred species such as labradors, golden retrievers, German shepherds, boxers, beagles, English springer spaniels, poodles and dachshunds more likely to be affected.

Jemima Mead, brand manager at Boehringer Ingelheim, said the product can play a key role in "improving the lives of newly-diagnosed epileptic dogs and their owners by reducing the number of seizures and their impact on the patient's life".

This UK launch comes after the European Commission approved the drug earlier this month.