In China, cat owners are using human COVID-19 antiviral drugs to treat Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP), a deadly disease caused by a feline-specific coronavirus. This unexpected use has given new life to Merck & Co.’s Lagevrio in the post-pandemic era. FIP was previously difficult to treat, prompting pet owners to seek alternative remedies.
Social media platforms, particularly Xiaohongshu (China’s version of Instagram), have become popular spaces for cat parents to share success stories about using Lagevrio to save their pets. These shared experiences are helping others find cost-effective solutions to treat their cats and avoid expensive veterinary bills.
FIP, which causes severe inflammation and affects a cat’s white blood cells, is almost always fatal without treatment. One of the most promising treatments, GS-441524, developed by Gilead Sciences, has not been approved by the FDA and is often obtained through underground markets. Chinese cat owners typically face high costs and the risk of counterfeit drugs when seeking GS-441524.
In contrast, human antiviral medications like Lagevrio offer a more affordable option. A 40-pill bottle of Lagevrio, priced around 1,725 yuan ($236), can be used to treat multiple cats, making it a popular alternative. Some pet owners are also supplementing their cats’ diets with human nutritional products to save on the high costs of veterinary supplements.
Merck has not yet commented on the off-label use of its antiviral drug. Meanwhile, Chinese pharmaceutical companies, including Henan Genuine Biotech Co. and Simcere Pharmaceutical Group Ltd., are producing more affordable domestic alternatives, which are gaining attention from cat owners.
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