U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Tessie (tasipimidine oral solution) for the treatment of noise aversion and separation anxiety in dogs. While FDA has approved drugs to treat noise aversion and to treat separation anxiety in dogs, Tessie is the first FDA-approved treatment for both noise aversion and separation anxiety in dogs.
Noise aversion and separation anxiety are fear-based behavioral problems in dogs. These conditions often can be addressed through behavioral modification but in some cases, medication may be necessary. Dogs with noise aversion are sensitive to and fearful of loud noises such as fireworks, street/traffic noises, and gun shots. Dogs with separation anxiety are fearful of or have underlying anxiety about being left alone. Dogs experiencing these types of distress may hide, vocalize (whine, bark, howl), pant, shake or tremble, or they may vomit, urinate, and/or defecate. Some dogs may act destructively and damage furniture, doors, and other items in their surroundings.
Tasipimidine, the active ingredient in Tessie, is an alpha-2 adrenoceptor agonist. It works by activating specific receptors in a dog’s brain to decrease heightened sympathetic nervous system (fight-or-flight) activity associated with noise aversion and separation anxiety.
Tessie is typically administered orally one hour before the expected start of either a noise-triggering stimulus (e.g., fireworks), or one hour before leaving the dog alone. The product should not be given with food because it can delay the drug’s absorption. Wait at least one hour after feeding before dosing. However, a small treat can be given when administering the product, if needed, to ensure the dog swallows the solution. Tessie can be given up to three times within 24 hours, with at least three hours between doses.
Tessie is a prescription product because veterinary expertise is necessary to diagnose and treat noise aversion and separation anxiety in dogs.
Tessie is sponsored by Orion Corporation based in Finland.
