Cytopoint (Lokivetmab)
An injectable, caninized monoclonal antibody that targets and neutralizes interleukin-31 (IL-31) to relieve allergic itching in dogs.
💬 In Plain English
Cytopoint is an innovative biologic therapy given as an injection in the clinic every 4 to 8 weeks. Unlike synthetic drugs that are processed by the liver and kidneys, Cytopoint is a "caninized monoclonal antibody"—an engineered protein that looks and acts just like a dog’s natural immune antibodies. It circulates in the bloodstream and acts like a molecular magnet, binding to and neutralizing Interleukin-31 (the specific itch messenger). Because it mimics natural antibodies, it is broken down through ordinary protein recycling, making it safe for dogs of all ages and dogs with kidney or liver disease.
🔬 Clinical & Technical Depth
For Vets & TechniciansFormal Clinical Definition
Caninized monoclonal antibody (mAb) that specifically targets and neutralizes canine interleukin-31 (cIL-31), preventing activation of IL-31 receptor complexes on peripheral sensory neurons and breaking the itch-scratch cycle.
Why Veterinarians Use It
Veterinarians use Cytopoint as a safe, long-lasting injectable alternative to daily pills for managing canine atopic dermatitis and allergic pruritus.
Clinical Context Encountered
Administered in the veterinary clinic as a subcutaneous injection every 4 to 8 weeks.
Clinical Reference Guide (Veterinary Medication)
What Owners Must Know
- Administered as a subcutaneous injection in the clinic
- Begins relieving itch within 24 hours and typically lasts 4 to 8 weeks
- Does not burden the liver or kidneys, making it an excellent choice for geriatric pets or pets on multiple medications
Potential Side Effects
- Extremely well-tolerated with minimal side effects
- Transient lethargy or injection site discomfort in <2% of patients
- Very rare hypersensitivity or allergic facial swelling
- •Cytopoint is engineered with canine protein sequences (caninized): it cannot be given to cats, as feline immune systems would recognize it as foreign and destroy it.
❓ Questions to Ask Your Veterinarian
Take these actionable questions with you to your next clinic visit or appointment:
- 1How quickly will Cytopoint start working (typically within 24 hours)?
- 2How many weeks of relief does my dog typically achieve before needing a booster injection (usually 4 to 8 weeks)?
- 3Is Cytopoint safe to use alongside my dog’s other medications for arthritis or heart disease?
Academic & Clinical References
- USDA Center for Veterinary Biologics: Lokivetmab Product Safety NoticeOrganization: U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA CVB) • Accessed: 2026-01-10https://www.aphis.usda.gov