Cytopoint Injection for Dogs

PetMD’s medications content was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer your most common questions about how medications function, their side effects, and what species they are prescribed for. This content shouldn’t take the place of advice by your vet.  

What Is Cytopoint Used for in Dogs?

Cytopoint is a prescription injection administered under a dog’s skin (subcutaneous) by your veterinarian for itching caused by certain skin conditions.  

It is the first and only monoclonal antibody injection USDA-approved for use in dogs for relief of itching due to atopic dermatitis—a skin condition caused by environmental allergies (seasonal allergies triggered by pollen, dust, and grass, among others; and allergic dermatitis, a skin condition caused by food, fleas, or other substances that come into contact with the skin). 

Cytopoint does not cure your dog’s underlying allergic condition but is a symptomatic treatment to help relieve the itching triggered by it.  

Cytopoint injection for dogs is available by prescription only and must be administered at a veterinary practice. It is not available for administration at home because your vet’s professional expertise is needed to properly diagnose environmental allergies in your dog, administer the injection, and monitor the safe use of Cytopoint. 

Cytopoint is often used in combination with several other allergy management treatments and supportive care (e.g., omega fatty acid supplements, topical spray and mousse, shampoo therapy, flea and tick preventative, recovery shirt) to help improve the health of your dog’s skin.  

It often takes time and patience to determine the best combination of treatments to help your dog, and your veterinarian will determine whether this medication is right for your pet. 

Cytopoint is approved only for dogs at this time and should not be used in any other species.  

How Cytopoint Injections Work in Dogs

The active ingredient in Cytopoint, lokivetmab, is a dog-specific monoclonal antibody, which is a type of protein made in the laboratory that binds to certain targets in the body—just like the antibodies in your dog’s own immune system. 

Cytopoint specifically binds to and neutralizes interleukin-31 (IL-31), which is one of the main chemical messengers involved in sending itch signals to a dog’s brain, triggering symptoms of scratching, licking, and chewing.  

When the Cytopoint antibody binds to IL-31, it blocks the itch signal from reaching a dog’s brain, providing relief from itching and allowing irritated skin to heal. 

How To Give Cytopoint Injections to Dogs

Your veterinarian will administer the Cytopoint injection under your dog’s skin.  

• Cytopoint injection for dogs is given once every four to eight weeks, and the dosage is determined by your dog’s weight.  

• After the injection, you will likely observe a lowering of your dog’s itch level daily over the following weeks.  

• Your veterinarian will need to check your dog’s response to Cytopoint to help determine how often your dog should receive the injection. 

Missed a Dose? 

If you forget to bring your dog in for their injection, please contact your vet.  

In general, your veterinarian will schedule an appointment for your dog as needed to assess your dog’s response to Cytopoint and administer the next treatment. 

Possible Side Effects of Cytopoint in Dogs

Cytopoint is typically well-tolerated in most dogs.  

Uncommon side effects that can occur within the first few days after the injection include: 

• Gastrointestinal signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite 

• Decreased energy level 

• Tenderness or pain at the injection site 

• Limping on the leg where the injection was given 

Cytopoint is safe for most dogs, but in rare instances, some may be hypersensitive to it or develop an allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Symptoms may include:  

• Severe grogginess 

• Weakness 

• Collapse 

• Trouble breathing 

• Vomiting 

• Facial swelling 

• Hives 

Because Cytopoint hasn’t been proven safe for pregnant or nursing pets, your veterinarian will decide if it’s OK to use during pregnancy, while nursing, or in pets used for breeding.  

Human Side Effects 

Cytopoint is not an approved medication for humans. To be safe, do not participate in any way during the injection. Veterinary staff will hold your dog as the vet administers the medication. 

If you accidentally become injected with a pet medication, seek medical attention immediately in person; show the package leaflet or label to the physician, if available; and call Poison Control at 800-222-1222. 

Monitoring Your Pet 

No specific monitoring is required for this medication, but your veterinarian may recommend routine testing depending on your pets' individual needs, other medications they may be prescribed, and/or the issue that initially caused your pet to be placed on this medication. 

When To Call Your Vet 

Call your veterinarian if you see any of the following: 

• Severe side effects (above) 

• Your pet’s condition worsens or does not improve with treatment 

• You see or suspect an overdose 

• If you have additional questions or concerns about the use of Cytopoint 

How To Store Cytopoint for Dogs

• Your vet should store Cytopoint in a refrigerator with a temperature of 36–47 F (2 C–8 C), according to product insert instructions. 

• Keep out of reach of children and pets.