WILMINGTON, N.C. (WRMT) – A new drug currently called LOY-001 is being designed to extend the lifespan of dogs.
According to Loyal, the San Francisco-based company behind the drug, it could be on the market as early as 2026.
The drug is specifically designed for large adult dogs, which generally have a shorter life span than small dogs. It works by interacting with hormones thought to both cause dogs to grow and accelerate aging.
Research over the years has shown that dogs with lower insulin levels had reduced frailty and a higher quality of life.
According to Loyal, LOY-001 is a long-acting injectable medication that would be administered to dogs by a veterinarian every three to six months. Side effects can include mild and temporary gastrointestinal distress in dogs.
More research needs to be done before the drug can be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
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