Vets across Europe will be able to get their hands on Boehringer Ingelheim’s equine lameness product, Arti-Cell Forte, as early as May 2019.
The first registered stem cell-based veterinary medicine will be on the market from May 2019.
Boehringer Ingelheim has launched Arti-Cell Forte in Europe for the reduction of mild to moderate recurrent lameness associated with non-septic joint inflammation in horses.
Described as a “groundbreaking first-ever approved therapy”, Arti-Cell Forte has been developed towards targeting lameness by using specifically primed, chondrogenic-induced stem cells.
The product will be available in an ultra-low frozen ready-to-use presentation.
Partnership
Boehringer Ingelheim and Global Stem Cell Technology (GST) formed a partnership last year with the ambition to bring new treatments and solutions to improve animal health.
Arti-Cell Forte was specifically designed for horses to provide a “convenient and long-term” solution for recurrent lameness.
Priming the cells towards cartilage aids them to deliver the right activities in the affected joint, said Jan Spaas, chief executive of GST.
He said: “We are absolutely delighted with our first marketing authorisation from the European Commission and the first stem cell-based product in animal health.
“We are sure that with our partner, Boehringer Ingelheim, this product will become a game changer in equine health.”
Ready to use
Erich Schoett, head of the global strategic business unit (equine) at Boehringer Ingelheim, added: “Early disease detection and early treatment are key to ensure horses are healthy and live longer, happier lives.
”Arti-Cell Forte, as the first-ever approved stem cell-based product, offers to veterinarians and horse owners a ready-to-use solution to help raise the health and quality of life for horses with mild to moderate recurrent lameness.”
Approved
Following the scientific review by the European Medicines Agency and decision of EU marketing authorisation by the European Commission, Arti-Cell Forte is now approved as a veterinary medicine for the treatment of equine lameness.
It will be available from May and June 2019 onwards in a range of European countries.
