What is FIP?
Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a severe and often fatal viral disease caused by feline coronavirus. The inflammation caused by FIP predominantly affects critical organs such as the liver, kidneys, and brain, but can also damage other areas like the eyes and intestines.
FIP is considered one of the most devastating diseases in cats, particularly because it can progress rapidly and has been historically viewed as untreatable.
How Does FIP Affect Cats?
FIP often shows through a variety of symptoms, which can vary depending on the form of the disease. Symptoms range from abdominal swelling or difficulty breathing caused by accumulation of fluid in the abdomen or chest, or fever, weight loss, lethargy and vision impairment.
The disease is most commonly diagnosed in young cats under the age of 2, mostly those living in multi-cat environments, where the virus is more likely to spread. Adult cats are not immune and can also be infected. FIP rapidly progresses to organ failure if left untreated, which is often fatal.
Before viable antiviral treatments, FIP was almost universally fatal, with supportive care being the only available option. Fortunately, newer treatments like GS-441524 have revolutionized FIP management, offering many cats the best chance at recovery.
Treatment for FIP: GS-441524
What is GS-441524?
GS-441524 is an antiviral drug that has emerged as a groundbreaking treatment for FIP. By targeting the feline coronavirus, GS-441524 helps stop the spread of the virus within the body and gives the cat’s immune system the ability to fight the infection. GS-441524 is a metabolite of a different antiviral drug called remdesivir, which has also been used to treat FIP in some case studies. Remdesivir is currently available in the US as an injectable but is extremely expensive and is not a good option for most pet owners.
How is GS-441524 Used?
GS-441524 is typically administered in the form of an oral liquid but can also be compounded into other oral formulations. The duration of treatment can last up to 12 weeks depending on the severity of the FIP and the cat’s response to the medication. Most cats begin to show signs of improvement within 1-2 weeks of starting treatment, and full recovery can be achieved when the full course is completed.
At Northwest Compounders, GS-441524 is compounded into an oral liquid, easing administration for owners, allowing them to treat their cats comfortably at home.Compounded liquids can be flavored with a pet friendly flavor like chicken, beef or fish to improve palatability of the medication.
If you suspect your cat has FIP or have been given a diagnosis, contact your veterinarian to discuss the possibility of starting GS-441524 treatment. Starting treatment immediately after a diagnosis is made can help improve the chances of a positive treatment outcome.
If you are a veterinarian interested in providing GS-441524 for your patients, you can now conveniently order online using the link HERE. If you have questions about FIP treatment with GS-441524, please call our pharmacy today to speak with one of our pharmacists (503) 352-3811.
