AHN Highlights: Portela® (relfovetmab)
- Type: Monoclonal antibody (anti-NGF)
- Indication: Pain relief for feline osteoarthritis
- Dosing: Single injection every three months
- Trial results: Improved mobility and reduced OA pain; well tolerated in cats with early-stage kidney disease
- Side effects: Temporary injection-site pain, mild dermatitis
- Availability: Expected in the EU in 2026
The European Commission has approved Portela® (relfovetmab), a new monoclonal antibody therapy from Zoetis, for the treatment of pain associated with osteoarthritis (OA) in cats. The decision makes Portela the first mAb therapy for cats with a three-month dosing interval.
Portela targets nerve growth factor (NGF), a key mediator of OA pain and inflammation. In a nine-month European field study, the treatment reduced pain and improved mobility in cats, including those with early-stage kidney disease.
“The European Commission’s authorization for Portela marks an important step forward in feline pain management,” said Rob Polzer, Ph.D., Executive Vice President and President of Research and Development at Zoetis. “Its long-acting properties and unique NGF-binding profile offer veterinarians and cat owners a new option for managing chronic pain.”
Osteoarthritis is a common but often underdiagnosed condition in cats, with research suggesting that up to 40% show signs of OA but fewer than one in five receive a diagnosis. Long-acting therapies such as Portela may help improve pain control, particularly in cats that are difficult to medicate regularly.
Zoetis already markets Solensia® (frunevetmab), a monthly anti-NGF antibody therapy approved in more than 40 countries. Portela extends the company’s OA portfolio by offering a longer dosing interval.
The most common side effect reported in trials was transient injection-site pain, followed by mild dermatitis. Zoetis expects to launch Portela in the European Union in 2026.
Information and quotes taken from company press release.
