Over the last few years great progress has been made in the treatment of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP). This previously deadly disease in cats can now be successfully managed with proper treatment.
The following information was written by Dr. Stephanie Sorrell, Prof. Séverine Tasker, Dr. Sam Taylor, Dr. Emi Barker, and Prof. Danielle Gunn-Moore
FIP is a severe disease in cats caused by feline coronavirus. COVID-19 is also caused by a coronavirus but the coronavirus causing FIP is not the same and only infects cats. Feline coronavirus is commonly found in the feces of cats and research has shown that infection is very common among cats. Thankfully, in most, it causes mild diarrhea or no signs at all. However, in a small number of cats, the virus changes (mutates) inside the cat, and interacts with the cat’s immune system in a certain way, resulting in FIP. Finding coronavirus in a cat doesn’t mean they have FIP, and it is not possible to consistently tell the difference between a coronavirus causing FIP, and one causing no signs of illness. Further tests must be performed by a veterinarian to diagnose FIP.
We do not know why certain cats develop FIP and others do not, but it is diagnosed more often in:
Additionally, the disease can cause fluid to accumulate in the abdomen/belly, chest and occasionally around the heart (so called ‘wet’ FIP) so owners may notice a swollen, rounded belly or the cat may have difficulty breathing. The non-effusive (‘dry’) form can affect any organ including the intestines, lymph nodes, brain, kidneys and eyes. Many cats have a combination of ‘wet’ and ‘dry’ forms of FIP and some cats have pale, slightly yellow gums.
If the brain or spinal cord (neurological FIP) is affected cats will show signs such as fits, an abnormal way of walking (wobbly gait), changes in behavior or trembling for example.
If the eyes are affected (ocular FIP) they may look cloudy, bloody or with different pupil sizes, and the cat may show signs of pain such as holding the eye or eyes closed.
If you suspect that your cat may have FIP, consult with your veterinarian.
When fluid develops in a body cavity - especially the abdomen and/or chest
When no fluid forms
Affecting the brain and/or spinal cord
Affecting the eyes
In the past, there was no effective treatment for FIP but thankfully times have changed and there are antiviral medications available with good results in treating FIP. These drugs are legally available in many countries and have been shown to be safe and effective (through clinical studies), although they can be expensive.
Current recommendations are to treat for 12 weeks to allow full clearance of the disease. This can seem a long time but gives cats the best chance of recovery. It may be that shorter courses can be recommended in the future but for now 12 weeks of treatment is required. Different types of FIP require different amounts (dosages) of antiviral medication, FIP cats showing neurological and/or ocular signs being treated with higher dosages. However, there is variation in how cats respond, and adjustments may be needed during the treatment period. If a cat is not responding as expected, the amount of antiviral medication may need to be increased.
Stokes Pharmacy has formed an exclusive partnership with the Bova group to offer a U.S.-made oral treatment for FIP. This treatment is supported by Bova’s unique drug formula, which has been utilized in clinical research studies across the globe and is currently in use in the UK and Australia.
With a partner like Stokes, you can be confident in the medications you receive and use. Our commitment to quality is put into practice in all that we do, for every patient we serve.
In an industry where regulations vary by state, and every prescription is custom-formulated, there’s a lot of room for error. Not at Stokes Pharmacy. We’ve always set the bar higher, voluntarily meeting and often exceeding the strictest compounding standards in the nation.
Patient prescriptions will ship once we confirm payment and shipping information from the pet owner. Then it will be 1-2 business days in transit. Overnight shipping is also available upon request.
10 tablets = $195.00
20 tablets = $325.00
40 tablets = $546.00
These prices do not include shipping + tax when applicable. Our standard 1-2 day shipping is $9.50. Overnight shipping is available upon request.
Note: one tablet can be quartered for multiple strengths. Cost of full duration of treatment will vary based on weight changes during treatment and course of treatment and will be under the direction of your veterinarian.
Prices subject to change.
No, we have the tested formulation from Bova that Bova helped us test. We are not making GS-441524 in any other form other than the 50 mg tablets. Please see what could potentially happen when you use a non-tested form of the medication – https://www.stokespharmacy.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Handout-JAVMA-April-2024-Study.pdf
Outcomes from treatment with GS-441524 as a sole oral treatment are comparable (complete response in 90%+) with combined treatment of remdesivir and GS-441524 or remdesivir alone (Taylor et al, 2023)
No one knows what is in the black market drugs as they are unknown, untested drugs made following no regulations. The Stokes Pharmacy product is tested against a proven standard and compounded by a leading regulated nationwide compounding pharmacy.
Your beloved pet should be under the care of a licensed veterinarian to guide you through your FIP journey. Like other antivirals GS-441524 should be prescribed by a veterinarian for reasons that include the risk of antimicrobial resistance. Stokes Pharmacy is a leading regulated nationwide compounding pharmacy that is selling the only oral formula identical to the Bova formula used in clinical studies across the globe. Stokes Pharmacy’s GS-441524 Tablets were tested by Bova to meet their exact specifications. Here is a clinical study on black market drugs: https://www.stokespharmacy.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Handout-JAVMA-April-2024-Study.pdf
Yes, we ship to all 50 states and Puerto Rico.
Currently, we do not ship any prescriptions internationally. However, Bova Global may be able to assist you.
We are not contracted with any pet insurance companies. If you would like to seek reimbursement for GS-441524, please contact your insurance provider for more information. Trupanion has already announced they are ready to provide coverage for FIP medication: read press release here.
Yes, the drug contains no fish proteins.
We cannot take back medication after it leaves the pharmacy. NJ State Board of Pharmacy regulations prohibit us from reusing medication that has left the pharmacy. You can check with your local shelter or animal rescue to see if they can accept it as a donation.
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