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Rabacfosadine

Prescription
Nucleotide Analog (Chemotherapy)
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Double prodrug that releases the active nucleotide analog PMEG intracellularly. PMEG is incorporated into DNA by DNA polymerases, causing chain termination and apoptosis. Designed specifically for canine lymphoma.

At a glance

Class
Nucleotide Analog (Chemotherapy)
Schedule
Prescription (Chemotherapy)
Storage
Refrigerate 2–8°C; diluted solution use within 4h; chemotherapy precautions

Dosing

🐕

Dog

FDA-conditionally approved for canine lymphoma (T-cell and B-cell)
Dose
1 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q3 weeks x 5 doses
🐈

Cat

Not approved or studied in cats
Dose
Route
N, A
Frequency
N/A

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength

Storage

Refrigerate 2–8°C; diluted solution use within 4h; chemotherapy precautions

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Thoracic radiographs before each dose (pulmonary fibrosis screening)CBC at nadir and before each doseHepatic enzymesSkin assessmentRespiratory rate and effort

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Tanovea-CA1

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Rabacfosadine?
Rabacfosadine is a nucleotide analog (chemotherapy) used in pets. Double prodrug that releases the active nucleotide analog PMEG intracellularly. PMEG is incorporated into DNA by DNA polymerases, causing chain termination and apoptosis. Designed specifically for canine lymphoma.
What is Rabacfosadine used for in pets?
Rabacfosadine is used in veterinary medicine for: FDA-conditionally approved for canine lymphoma (T-cell and B-cell); Not approved or studied in cats.
What is the Rabacfosadine dose for dogs?
For dogs, Rabacfosadine is typically dosed as follows — FDA-conditionally approved for canine lymphoma (T-cell and B-cell): 1 mg/kg PO q3 weeks x 5 doses. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Rabacfosadine dose for cats?
For cats, Rabacfosadine is typically dosed as follows — Not approved or studied in cats: undefined undefined N/A N/A. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Rabacfosadine need a prescription?
Yes. Rabacfosadine is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →