Diabetes mellitus is a common endocrine disorder in cats that can have a significant impact on their quality of life. Until recently, insulin therapy was the only viable treatment option for cats with diabetes. However, a new medication called Bexacat has been FDA approved earlier this year as the first oral medication for diabetes in cats. In this article, we will discuss the mechanism of action, benefits and concerns, as well as patient selection and administration of Bexacat.
Mechanism of Action of Bexacat
The active substance of Bexacat is bexagliflozin which belongs to a class of drugs known as sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and its mechanism of action in diabetic cats is expected to be similar to its mechanism in humans. Bexagliflozin works by blocking the action of a protein called SGLT2 in the kidneys, which normally reabsorbs glucose from the urine back into the bloodstream. By blocking this protein, bexagliflozin reduces the reabsorption of glucose and increases the amount of glucose excreted in the urine. This results in a decrease in blood glucose levels and an improvement in glycemic control in cats with diabetes mellitus. As a consequence, the medication may also lead to a reduction in the symptoms of diabetes, such as increased thirst and urination. Additionally, bexagliflozin may also lead to weight loss and a decrease in blood pressure.
Pros and Cons of Bexacat
Bexacat offers several benefits over insulin therapy. The main advantage of Bexacat is that it is an oral medication, which makes it more convenient and less invasive than insulin injections which translates to increased patient compliance. Additionally, Bexacat has been shown to be effective in improving glycemic control and reducing insulin requirements in cats with diabetes. It also has a rapid onset of action and a short duration of effect, which allows for more precise dosing and monitoring. However, Bexacat is not without its downsides. One of the major concerns associated with Bexacat is the potential for adverse effects on the liver, including hepatotoxicity.
Patient Selection and Administration
Bexacat is indicated for cats with diabetes mellitus who are not adequately controlled with diet and exercise alone. Patients with liver and/or kidney disease, hyperlipidemia, or other medical conditions may not be suitable candidates for Bexacat. Bexacat is administered orally once daily, with or without food. The recommended starting dose of Bexacat is 1-2 mg/kg/day, which should be adjusted based on the cat’s response to treatment and any adverse effects.
Conclusion
Bexacat represents a significant breakthrough in the treatment of diabetes mellitus in cats. As the first oral medication for diabetes in cats, Bexacat offers several advantages over insulin therapy, including improved glycemic control, reduced insulin requirements, and increased patient compliance. However, Bexacat is not suitable for all cats with diabetes and must be used with caution in cats with liver and kidney disease, hyperlipidemia, or other medical conditions. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney functions along with blood glucose and fructosamine levels is also required when using Bexacat. Veterinary professionals should carefully evaluate each patient’s individual needs and medical history before considering Bexacat as a treatment option for feline diabetes mellitus.