Peptech launches dog contraceptive

Peptech Animal Health, a wholly owned subsidiary of Sydney-based Peptech (ASX:PTD) has begun to market its slow-release canine contraceptive, Suprelorin, to Australian veterinarians.

The Suprelorin implant is is inserted under the skin between the dog's shoulders . It contains an active ingredient, deslorelin, which causes temporary sterility and suppresses sexual behaviour by inactivating the pituitary-gland receptors for the master signalling molecule, gonadoptrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH). This reduces testosterone levels to zero.

"Castration is widely recommended in Australia and New Zealand, for good health and behavioural reasons," said Peptech Animal Health managing director, Dr Tim Trigg.

"Suprelorin provides the advantages of castration, without resorting to surgery."

Peptech Animal Health recently received an Australian Research Committee (ARC) linkage grant to investigate the use of Suprelorin in controlling large marsupial populations, including koala and kangaroo.