Zoetis gains FDA nod for dog screwworm treatment

Zoetis Inc said on Friday the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had granted an emergency use authorization for its veterinary drug to treat screwworm infestations in dogs.

The FDA's decision allows Zoetis to distribute the treatment while the agency continues to review the drug's safety and efficacy data. The emergency authorization applies specifically to dogs diagnosed with screwworm, a parasitic infestation caused by the larvae of the screwworm fly.

Screwworm infestations can lead to severe tissue damage and, if untreated, may result in fatal outcomes for affected animals. The condition is particularly prevalent in warmer climates and can pose significant risks to livestock and pets.

Zoetis, a leading animal health company, did not disclose additional details regarding the treatment's commercial availability or pricing. The company stated it would provide further updates as the regulatory review process progresses.

The FDA's emergency use authorization pathway is typically utilized to expedite access to medical products during public health emergencies or when no adequate alternatives exist. Zoetis's treatment marks the latest in a series of veterinary innovations aimed at addressing emerging animal health challenges.