Beransa® (bedinvetmab) is one of the most significant advances in managing osteoarthritis in dogs.

It's a different kind of medication—neither a painkiller nor an anti-inflammatory in the traditional sense. Instead, it's part of a new class of targeted therapies called monoclonal antibodies.

What is Beransa®?

Beransa is a monthly injection designed specifically for dogs with osteoarthritis. It contains bedinvetmab, a monoclonal antibody that binds to and neutralises nerve growth factor (NGF)—a key molecule involved in the development and persistence of chronic pain.

Unlike non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) or opioids, Beransa doesn’t block pain directly. Instead, it disrupts the messaging system that sensitises nerves and amplifies pain over time. This makes it especially useful in chronic conditions where inflammation and nerve sensitisation feed into each other.

How does it work?

NGF plays a role in maintaining nerve health, but in osteoarthritis it becomes overactive, driving chronic pain and stiffness. Beransa binds to NGF and blocks its effects, helping break the pain cycle.

Because Beransa is a protein, it is not processed by the liver or kidneys like many drugs. This makes it a potentially safer option for dogs with underlying organ conditions or those who don’t tolerate NSAIDs well.

What does the science say?

The development of Beransa is based on a growing body of research into NGF and chronic pain.

Clinical trials in dogs have shown:

• Improved mobility scores within weeks of starting treatment

• Reduced signs of pain even in dogs who previously struggled with other medications

• A low rate of reported adverse effects during controlled trials

These findings were exciting and marked a shift in how we think about treating osteoarthritis in our patients.

What does the internet say?

Understandably, a lot of attention—and anxiety—has emerged online around Beransa. Fear tends to generate clicks, but concerns should never be dismissed outright.

While the vast majority of dogs respond well, no medication is risk-free, and we approach Beransa with thoughtful caution.

In our clinic, Beransa is not a first-line treatment. We consider it when:

• NSAIDs are not tolerated or contraindicated

• Other pain management strategies haven’t provided enough relief

• A dog's mobility and quality of life are significantly affected

We monitor each patient closely and talk through the risks, benefits, and alternatives with you.

What about side effects?

Like all medications, Beransa is not without risk. The most commonly reported side effects are mild, such as:

• Redness or discomfort at the injection site

• Mild lethargy or gastrointestinal upset

However, in recent months there have been increasing anecdotal reports of more serious hypersensitivity reactions—such as facial swelling, hives, or, very rarely, systemic signs like vomiting or collapse. These are being reviewed internationally, and no definitive causal link has been confirmed.

That said, one of our own patients has experienced a severe reaction. While such reports are still classified as anecdotal, our direct experience makes this feel more than theoretical. This has strengthened our commitment to using Beransa carefully and selectively.

We encourage owners to contact us if they notice anything unusual after an injection—no matter how mild it seems.

Should I be worried?

It’s natural to feel uncertain when reading about adverse reactions online. The reality is that every medication—especially new ones—comes with some degree of risk.

Whether Beransa is right for your dog depends on:

• Their overall health

• What treatments have already been tried

• Your goals for comfort, mobility, and quality of life

If you’re considering Beransa, are already using it, or simply want to talk through your options—we’re here for that conversation.