Reveal The Black Market for a Lifesaving Cat Drug
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Jan 3, 2026 
In a compelling discussion, Alex Goldman, a seasoned host and reporter from Hyperfixed, dives into the intricate world of a black market for a lifesaving cat drug. He shares the touching story of Marlena Arjo and her kitten Otto, who battled feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) against all odds. The podcast reveals the grassroots efforts of cat lovers who connected through Facebook groups to source illegal medication. Goldman also highlights the shifts in veterinary practices and the eventual push to legalize treatment options for FIP, transforming the landscape for desperate pet owners.
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One-Eyed Kitten Saved By Black-Market Drug
- Marlena Arjo adopted Otto, a one-eyed kitten who later developed fatal-seeming FIP and stopped eating.
- A vet discreetly pointed her to a Facebook group where she bought black-market GS441524 that cured Otto within a week.
Research Identified A Highly Effective Antiviral
- Dr. Niels Peterson discovered GS441524 halted feline coronavirus mutations that cause FIP.
- His lab work showed the compound could cure over 90% of FIP cases in trials.
Commercial Priorities Left Cats Without Legal Drug
- Gilead prioritized its human antiviral remdesivir over pursuing veterinary approval for GS441524.
- That decision left an effective cat treatment without a legal, licensed manufacturer.