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Pharma & Biotech

Zoetis shares drop amid concerns over arthritis shots' safety for pets

Zoetis Inc (NYSE:ZTS, ETR:ZOE) shares took a hit Friday after a Wall Street Journal report that suggested the company's arthritis shots may have sickened dogs and cats.

The arthritis shots, Librela and Solensia, target osteoarthritis by focusing on nerve growth factor protein.

However, veterinarians caution that such targeting may worsen existing nerve conditions or other medical issues.

Health regulators in the US and Europe have received numerous reports of side effects.

Zoetis told the WSJ that these instances represent only a small portion of the over 18 million shots administered in the US and globally for both drugs.

Shares of Zoetis were down around 8.4% by midday Friday at $149.12.