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Fortetropin-based MYOS Products in Dogs and Cats with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Muscle wasting associated with illness, cachexia (use only in vet version), is a common complication in CKD due to decreased appetite, metabolic acidosis, inflammation, and altered protein metabolism. Loss of lean body mass negatively impacts strength, mobility, immune function, and quality of life.

MYOS’s Vet Exclusive line of both canine and feline Muscle Formula products has been shown to support muscle protein synthesis and reduce muscle breakdown by modulating myostatin activity. It is not a protein supplement but a regulator of muscle metabolism, making it suitable for CKD patients where protein intake must be carefully managed.

Indications

  • Dogs and cats diagnosed with IRIS Stage 1–4 CKD
  • Decreased activity, reduced mobility
  • At risk of cachexia despite nutritional management

Contraindications & Precautions

  • Known egg hypersensitivity
  • Use cautiously in patients with severe gastrointestinal intolerance
  • Not a replacement for renal therapeutic diets
  • Monitor in patients with concurrent conditions requiring strict dietary control

Product Administration

  • Administer per weight-based dosing
  • May be mixed with wet food for improved acceptance, especially for cats

 General Guidelines:

  • Introduce gradually over 3–5 days to improve palatability
  • Ensure consistent daily administration for optimal effect
  • Safe for long-term use

Concurrent CKD Management
Fortetropin should be used as part of a multimodal CKD care plan:

  • Prescription renal diet (controlled phosphorus, moderate high-quality protein)
  • Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation
  • Hydration support (oral or subcutaneous fluids as indicated)
  • Management of nausea, hypertension, and metabolic acidosis
  • Routine monitoring (BUN, creatinine, SDMA, phosphorus, body weight)

Monitoring & Outcomes

Assess Body Condition Score and Muscle Condition Score as part of routine physical examinations.

Expected Benefits:

  • Preservation or improvement of lean muscle mass
  • Stabilization of body weight
  • Improved strength and mobility
  • Enhanced quality of life and activity levels

Client Communication Points (Vet Version Only)

  • Emphasize that muscle loss is common in CKD and impacts longevity and comfort
  • Explain that MYOS supports muscle health without stressing the kidneys
  • Reinforce that this is a supportive therapy, not a cure
  • Encourage adherence and routine follow-ups
  • Highlight improvements in activity and engagement as key success indicators

Summary
Fortetropin-based MYOS products provide a safe, non-protein, exercise independent support strategy for dogs and cats with CKD. When integrated into standard renal care, they may help mitigate muscle wasting, maintain mobility, and improve overall quality of life.

References:

  • Freeman LM et al. Cachexia and sarcopenia in chronic kidney disease. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract.
  • Freeman, L.M. (2012), Cachexia and Sarcopenia: Emerging Syndromes of Importance in Dogs and Cats. J Vet Intern Med, 26: 3-17.
  • International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) Guidelines – CKD management (nutrition, body condition, muscle scoring)
  • White DA et al. Fortetropin inhibits disuse muscle atrophy in dogs after tibial plateau leveling osteotomy. PLoS One. 2020 Apr 9;15(4).

Muscle-Condition-Score-Chart-for-Dogs.pdf

Muscle Condition Scoring System: The WSAVA muscle condition score scale:

  1. Normal Muscle Mass: No noticeable muscle loss.
  2. Mild Muscle Loss: Slight reduction in muscle mass, noticeable upon palpation.
  3. Moderate Muscle Loss: More significant muscle loss, with visible changes in muscle contours.
  4. Severe Muscle Loss: Marked atrophy, with bones and more prominent and significant loss of muscle mass